The Open: Ernie Els Pulls Out of Royal Portrush Return Days Before Tee-Off
Ernie Els will not be making a return to The Open this year at Royal Portrush — marking a second consecutive withdrawal from the prestigious Major.
The 55-year-old South African, a two-time Open Champion, has stepped away from the tournament once again, just days before it all kicks off in Northern Ireland.
No official reason has been given this time, though last year Els cited a back injury at Royal Troon after a tough first round left him 11-over-par.
“This is the second successive year that the South African will have a WD next to his name at the sole European Major but the first ever in which he has failed to compete for the Claret Jug when eligible.”
It’s a blow for fans of “The Big Easy”, who has been a regular fixture at The Open for over three decades. He made his debut in 1989 — missing the cut — but quickly became a tournament stalwart, featuring in every edition from 1992 to 2023.
Over the years, Els racked up 11 top-10 finishes, alongside his two victories — first in 2002 at Muirfield via a thrilling four-man playoff, and again in 2012 at Royal Lytham & St Annes, a full decade later.
This year’s event promises to be a spectacle at Royal Portrush, and those planning to attend can find essential guidance here.
“The Big Easy twice won this trophy throughout his illustrious career, in 2002 and 2012…”
Despite holding eligibility to compete until the age of 60 as a past champion, Els has now missed the cut in six Opens since his last win, including the past three in a row. His presence in other Majors has also faded, with his last appearance dating back to the 2019 US Open.
His withdrawal opens the door for South Korean Si Woo Kim, who was first in line on the alternate list based on the latest Official World Golf Ranking.
“His replacement is South Korea’s Si Woo Kim, who was first on the alternate list taken from last week’s Official World Golf Ranking.”
Els’ most recent outing was at the US Senior Open two weeks ago, where he showed signs of solid form, finishing tied for 13th at even par across four consistent rounds at Broadmoor Golf Club.
Still, the absence of a name like Ernie Els at The Open is bound to be felt. A legend of the game. A four-time Major winner. And one of the calmest, most graceful swings the sport has ever seen.
Will he return in 2026? Only time will tell.
