Ernie Els joins SA Open field at Stellenbosch GC

Ernie Els has confirmed he will tee it up in the 115th South African Open Championship, set to take place at Stellenbosch Golf Club.

Feb 13, 2026 - 11:00
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Ernie Els joins SA Open field at Stellenbosch GC

Four-time Major champion Ernie Els has confirmed he will tee it up in the 115th South African Open Championship, set to take place at Stellenbosch Golf Club from 26 February to 1 March.

Els, a five-time winner of his national Open, strengthens what is shaping up to be a formidable South African contingent at the country’s most prestigious tournament.

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Strong home challenge

The former world number one will join a local field that includes Charl Schwartzel, defending champion Dylan Naidoo, and past champions Dean Burmester, Thriston Lawrence, Daniel van Tonder and Branden Grace.

Ernie Els has enjoyed a storied history in the South African Open, first lifting the trophy in 1992. He added further victories in 1996, 1998, 2006 and 2010, and finished runner-up in 1993, 1995 and 2005.

Sentimental return

The tournament marks a sentimental return to Stellenbosch for Els.

The last time the South African Open was staged at the venue in 1999, Els arrived as defending champion.

On that occasion, fellow South African David Frost claimed the title.

Major incentives on offer

This year’s championship carries significant international incentives.

The winner will secure an exemption into the 2026 Masters, while the top three finishers – if not already exempt – will earn places in The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale.

With Ernie Els adding his name to the field, the 115th edition promises to be one of the standout weeks on the South African golfing calendar.

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