Ernie Els to tee it up at SA Open with Masters invitation on the line in Stellenbosch

Ernie Els, a celebrated five-time winner of the South African Open, has confirmed his participation in the upcoming 115th edition of the prestigious championship.

In a thrilling announcement for golf enthusiasts, Els will join the field at the scenic Stellenbosch Golf Club from  February 26 to March 1 this year, promising a remarkable showcase of talented players and intense competition.

The legendary Els will face a strong local challenge, featuring not only the defending champion Dylan Naidoo but also renowned former champions Charl Schwartzel, Dean Burmester, Thriston Lawrence, Daniel van Tonder, and Branden Grace. Each brings a wealth of experience and skill, setting the stage for what promises to be a competitive tournament.

Els’s return to Stellenbosch is particularly poignant; the last South African Open held at this historic venue, in 1999, saw him defend his title before a local audience — a victory that still resonates deeply with fans. In that year, David Frost claimed the championship, but Els’s remarkable career established him as a dominant force in the South African Open’s rich history.

As this event marks its 115th year, the tournament is especially significant for the remarkable incentives it offers. For the first time, the winner will receive an invitation to compete at the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. This honour represents the pinnacle of achievement in professional golf.

Moreover, the top three finishers will secure spots in The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale, assuming they are not already exempt, ensuring that the stakes are higher than ever. This generous prize structure emphasises the Sunshine Tour’s growing stature in the global golfing arena.

“It is a powerful endorsement of the Sunshine Tour’s status as a strong and sustainable Tour, and further recognition of our role as a valued member of the global golf ecosystem,” said Thomas Abt, Commissioner of the Sunshine Tour, reflecting the excitement surrounding the event.

The Investec SA Open Championship is one of only four co-sanctioned tournaments on the Sunshine Tour, making it a significant fixture on the golfing calendar. It is the second-oldest National Open in the world, following The Open Championship, and attracts a diverse field of 156 professional golfers, all vying for the coveted title.

With such an illustrious lineup and unprecedented opportunities, the 115th Investec South African Open at Stellenbosch will be a must-watch event for golf fans globally. Els’s participation not only enriches the quality of the tournament field but also stirs nostalgia and anticipation among the local audiences who have long admired his remarkable journey.