Four-time major champion Ernie Els kicked off the PGA Tour Champions season in triumphant fashion, securing a two-stroke victory at the Mitsubishi Electric Championship in Hawaii. The 55-year-old South African closed with a 6-under 66 at Hualalai Golf Course to finish at 18-under par, holding off a star-studded field that included Bernhard Langer, Miguel Angel Jimenez, and Alex Cejka.
Els Fends Off Legendary Challengers
Els entered the final round in a six-way tie for the lead but managed to separate himself from the pack with a stellar performance. He traded birdies with Langer on the par-5 14th before seizing the outright lead with a 15-foot birdie on the 15th hole. From there, the smooth-swinging South African showcased his championship mettle.
Crucial Par Saves on Final Holes
After Langer and Jimenez closed to within one shot, Els faced a tricky 10-foot par putt on the 16th green. With steely focus, he drained the putt to maintain his slender advantage. On the 17th, Els’ birdie try from 25 feet slid past the hole, leaving him with a knee-knocking par putt. Once again, the veteran came through in the clutch, knocking it in to preserve his lead heading to the final hole.
Closing Out the Victory in Style
Standing on the tee at the par-4 18th, Els held a slim one-stroke lead. Langer, having fought valiantly all day, had one final opportunity to force a playoff. However, the German’s long birdie attempt slid just past the cup, leaving Els with a 10-foot putt for the championship. With poise and precision, Els calmly rolled in the putt, eliciting roars from the gallery.
“I’m thrilled to start the season with a win, especially against such a world-class field. Bernhard, Miguel, and Alex really pushed me to the limit today. This gives me a lot of confidence going forward.”
– Ernie Els
More Titles on the Horizon
The victory marks Els’ seventh on the PGA Tour Champions since he turned 50 in 2020. The World Golf Hall of Famer, who won four majors on the PGA Tour, has quickly become a dominant force on the senior circuit. With his smooth swing, unflappable demeanor, and wealth of experience, Els appears poised for a spectacular season.
- Els won three PGA Tour Champions events in 2022
- His four major titles include two U.S. Opens and two Open Championships
Chasing More Records and Accolades
While Els savors this latest triumph, he undoubtedly has his sights set on even greater achievements. With Langer’s record of 45 PGA Tour Champions victories within reach, Els will surely be motivated to continue his winning ways. Additionally, the prospect of adding more senior major titles to his already impressive resume will fuel his competitive fire.
| Player | PGA Tour Champions Wins | Senior Major Titles |
| Bernhard Langer | 45 | 11 |
| Hale Irwin | 45 | 7 |
| Ernie Els | 7 | 0 |
As the PGA Tour Champions season unfolds, golf fans worldwide will undoubtedly keep a keen eye on Els’ progress. With his victory at the Mitsubishi Electric Championship, he has served notice that he remains a formidable force on the senior circuit. If this performance is any indication, Ernie Els could be destined for a truly legendary season in the realm of senior golf.
