Ernie Els vows to focus on the PGA Tour
South-African golfer Ernie Els says his intentions next year are to focus on the PGA Tour and do less international events.
While in Bermuda for the Grand Slam of Golf told reporters about his new attitude and potential.
“I feel really fresh," he said, adding, "I feel like I can still achieve things in this game, and I want to achieve things in this game.” By “things” Els most likely means majors.
Els, who has three major championships, had a strong start to the year – winning three times in March – but has since underachieved.
His lack of success later in the year can perhaps be attributed to the fatigue that accompanies travel. Els is not only a member of the PGA Tour but plays in many European Tour events throughout the year.
His comments this week seem to imply a drastic decrease in to number of events played next year in Europe.
Els gave a window into his schedule for next year saying, "you're going to really see a lot different schedule next year. I'm going to play a lot more in the States. I'll still do the odd trip over to
Europe and so on, but it's not going to be what I used to be doing."
Reasons for his decision
The decision to devote himself more to the PGA Tour is most likely for familial reasons than professional. Els permanent residence is in England where he lives with his wife and two children but he also
has homes in his native South-Africa and Florida.
Els decision to spend more time in the United States is partly a reflection of the fact that the location of their home in Jupiter, Florida offers better treatment for Els’ autistic son, Ben.
Apart from family influences his decision to spend more time in the states is also a reflection of his desire to be more prepared for specific tournaments.
"Just feel I got such a wonderful family life now. It's really comfortable. I can practice at home right through the year now. It feels very, very comfortable, so I'm going to have a lot more time to be
on my game and be fresh."
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