4-time main champion Ernie Els is relishing the uncommon luxurious of competing in a significant championship simply minutes from his personal entrance door this week at Sunningdale Golf Membership.
The South African, who has referred to as the realm residence for practically three many years, is embracing the familiarity of the course, the neighborhood, and even the consolation of sleeping in his personal mattress.
“I’ve been trying ahead to this all yr,” stated Els. “Once I noticed it on the schedule, even final yr, I used to be like, man, that’s the one we need to be at. Seems like residence. Been right here for 28 years, performed the golf course so many occasions, and have so many mates right here.”
Coming off a robust stretch during the last two seasons that included a number of victories, Els is trying to regain momentum this week after what he describes as a “quiet” month on the course.
He’s hoping the consolation and course information of Sunningdale present simply the sting he wants.
“This might be an excellent week to attempt to get some kind again,” he stated. “It’s the final main of the yr, so that you may as effectively give it your finest effort.”
SUNNINGDALE CONDITION
Els, a longtime fan of Sunningdale, praised the situation of the historic heathland structure.
Having performed the course simply final Friday, he famous a major shift in circumstances as a consequence of latest rain, however emphasised that the observe is “in absolute pure situation.”
“The fairways are good. The greens are pretty much as good as I’ve ever seen. If we get good climate, you’re going to see some good scoring.”
Requested what it takes to carry out effectively at Sunningdale, Els pointed to the significance of precision.
“It’s all about ball-striking. You go offline, and there’s lots of hassle—heathland, bunkers, bushes. However for those who can maintain it in play and provides your self probabilities, you’ll be in a great place.”
Serving to him navigate the nuances of the greens this week is a well-recognized face—John, an area caddie with deep information of the course.
“He’s going to learn the greens for me. They are often tough,I’ve realized that,” Els smiled.
However past the aggressive edge and pristine circumstances, Els is most grateful for the uncommon privilege of staying at residence throughout a significant championship week.
“You possibly can’t inform how nice it’s,” he stated. “I used to like enjoying Wentworth and with the ability to keep residence, and now I can do it once more right here at Sunningdale. It’s extremely comfy.”
With the stage set and the environment feeling good, Els will look to show native information into leaderboard success as he chases yet one more main title.
