Dubai: Ernie Els insists his desire to succeed still burns as strong as ever as he returns to a familiar hunting ground later this month at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club from January 25 to 28.
One of the most prolific winners of his generation, Els enjoys fond memories of the longest-running European Tour event in region, having won it a record three times, and the 48-year-old South African is now relishing the chance to extend that feat and turn the page on a disappointing 2017 season.
“My hunger for competition is as strong as ever. It’s all about fighting hard to get something going, some momentum rolling. Hopefully, good memories of the Majlis course will come in very handy,” said Els, who also holds the course record of 61 here set in 1994, and is 184-under par for the 56 rounds he has played in Dubai since making his debut here in 1993.
“I think everyone knows I love playing in Dubai. I like the lines off the tees and the greens are quite soft so if you get your ball up, you can shoot some good scores. I always look forward to coming back and playing in this wonderful tournament.
“Results-wise, the 2017 season may have been a bit disappointing, but the good thing is that I feel like my game has been in better shape than the scores suggested,” added the former World No. 1, who boasts 70 professional career victories, including four Majors, two World Golf Championships and a record seven World Matchplay titles.
Nicknamed the Big Easy for his calm demeanour on the golf course, Els is the latest star to commit to the Omega Dubai Desert Classic along with Graeme McDowell, Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer and Ian Poulter further bolstering a stellar cast headlined by defending champion Sergio Garcia, Rory McIlroy and Pat Perez.
Tournament director David Spencer said: “We are delighted to welcome our only three-time champion back in Dubai. A great friend of Dubai, Ernie is a true ambassador of golf, having won across five continents. He plays his golf with the deftness of an artist, which is a treat to watch for any golf fan.
“Attribute it to old school loyalty or the Magic of the Majlis, every golfer feels like it’s coming home to Dubai and that is a big reason we have again assembled a strong field, one that fits perfectly with the tag-line of the tournament, ‘Made for Greatness.’
“I’m sure the fans are in for a real feast of golf with all the drama and emotions unfolding on the course. I wish everyone in the field the very the best and hope they have a great week.”
Tickets are available online via www.omegadubaidesertclassic.com. Per day tickets cost Dh175 whereas a season pass for access all week costs Dh500. Those aged 16 and under enter free when accompanied by an adult holding a valid ticket for the day.
