Ernie Els makes his first appearance in a tournament since his dramatic last round meltdown at the United States Open at Shinnecock Hills when he defends his Scottish Open title this week.
Els, paired with Colin Montgomerie and Lee Westwood for the first two rounds, took a two week break after crashing out of contention in the US as playing partner Retief Goosen collected his second major title of his career.
”It was quite something, I’ll tell you,” said Els, talking for the first time about his US Open collapse.
”Just one round that I played bad,” added the world number two.
Els insists he has put Shinnecock behind him as he gears up for next week’s British Open at Troon.
On Tuesday, Els played the course and announced he was delighted with the set up.
”I played it yesterday. It was a beautiful day, a slight breeze I think it’s set up very well. The rough’s a factor but it’s not going to kill you,” he explained.
”The greens have got a beautiful surface, obviously they are going to get quicker, but it’s set up very fair. I think if we have decent weather the guys will score well,” said Els.
The South African admits he is not sure what is the best way for him to prepare for the Open.
Two years ago he played poorly here at the Scottish Open and the next week went on to win the Open. Last year he won here and had a poor Open.
”What’s the best preparation? I don’t know,” said Els.
But Els said he favoured switching the Scottish Open to a links course.
There have been suggestions to alternate between Loch Lomond and Dundonald — an idea that appeals to Els.
”Leading up to the Open I think a lot of players see a links-type-setup. I hear Dundonald is a great set-up,” said Els.
”I would like to see it alternate year by year. I still say this is the best inland course we play but with the Scottish Open and then the British Open I think it would be great to play two links courses.
”I think maybe you would see a better field. Those Americans might come and support this event if there is a links feel before the Open.”
Masters champion Phil Mickelson is the top American playing here but he decided not even to have a practice round and will have his first look at the course this year when he tees off on Thursday.
Instead, Mickelson was 80km away at Troon familiarising himself with the arts and crafts of classic links golf.
But if there are few Americans here, the cream of Europe are battling for the 366 000 pounds first prize.
And for Justin Rose and Jose Maria Olazabal it is a chance to qualify for a spot in the Open.
The top placed player here who has not already qualified for Troon will win a coveted spot for next week.
One player who has pulled out at the last moment is Goosen.
The South African, winner of last week’s European Open in Ireland, decided he needed a rest before Troon.
Els backs his pullout.
”Two big wins and without a doubt the hottest player in the world right now and you want to be fresh going in for a major. I think he’s done the right thing,” said Els. – Sapa-AFP