Ernie Els' ability was as brilliant as it was aesthetic, particularly when he gracefully stroked his way to two titles in the 1990s.
The South African, fondly referred to as 'the Big Easy', clinched the major in 1994 and 1997. The Johannesburg-born golfer's silky playing style and trademark technique led him to victory, with his first triumph coming at Oakmont Country Club, the hosting course for this year's major.
Despite his laid-back moniker, Els hasn't taken it easy since leaving the aged 50 in 2020. Rather than hanging up his clubs for good, he transitioned to the PGA Tour Champions, where he continues to play.
READ MORE:
READ MORE:
His continued participation clearly stems from a love of the sport. After all, his substantial net worth indicates he doesn't need additional prize money. estimates Els' net worth at £62.7million, with a significant portion of this wealth coming from the reported £37m in prize money he earned during his career, which included two US Open titles and two Open victories.
He also raked in millions from endorsements, many of which continue to contribute to his fortune. Beyond his playing career, Els invested in a course design business that he still operates, as well as a winemaking venture. He has a keen interest in property, with his most notable real estate deal being the $11m (£8m) mansion he sold to Rory McIlroy in 2011.
The huge 12,800-square-foot dwelling boasts a luxury outdoor swimming pool, seven bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, its own recording studio, games room and a home cinema. As well as being a ginormous property, it's located in a neighbourhood that has been the home to the likes of Michael Jordan, Serena and Venus Williams, and fellow golf stars Luke Donald and Michelle Wie.
The estate's valuation has reportedly soared to a jaw-dropping £16.3m. The immense appreciation of the price might leave Els with a sliver of envy towards McIlroy. It would not be the last time the two-time Open champion took issue with the Northern Irishman.
McIlroy recently spoke about his potential retirement and emphatically stated that he has no desire to compete on the PGA Tour Champions senior circuit. In March, when questioned about the senior tour, he dismissed it, saying: "Look, I've said a lot of absolutes in my time that I've walked back [from].
"But I do not envision playing Champions Tour golf. Something has went terribly wrong if I have to compete at golf at 50."
McIlroy's attitude towards senior golf struck a chord with Els. Taking to X, he wrote: "Interesting to read @McIlroyRory comments today. At 35 years old I was also bulletproof saying things about not playing past 50.
"I'm 55 now and laughing at my comments from back then. @ChampionsTour golf is so fulfilling with a great bunch of players we all grew up together from junior golf. Our sponsors and partners are wonderful companies and people. Competition is a powerful tool!"
Els, no stranger to controversy throughout his golfing career, has been in the thick of it on more than one occasion. Yet, not many incidents compare to a contentious and infamous moment at the 1994 US Open.
Heading into the final day with a commanding three-shot advantage, Els found himself in trouble after hooking a drive into dense rough during the final round. Upon locating his ball, Els was hindered by a camera crane obstructing his path to the green.
An official ruled the crane was an immovable object and allowed Els a free drop, which favourably repositioned him. However, this stroke of luck was marred by the fact that the crane was actually movable, having been repositioned on multiple occasions.
The ruling proved vital as Els went on to claim his first US Open title, standing atop the leaderboard at the close of play. This incident was magnified when the official later acknowledged their error, adding another layer of controversy to Els' victory.
