Ernie Els to tee it up as SA Open offers new pathways to Masters and The Open

A five-time winner of his national Open, Els adds star power to what's shaping up to be a strong South African lineup, including Charl Schwartzel, defending champion Dylan Naidoo, and past winners Dean Burmester, Thriston Lawrence, Daniel van Tonder, and Branden Grace.

Els boasts a rich history at the SA Open, first claiming the title in 1992 and adding victories in 1996, 1998, 2006, and 2010, along with runner-up finishes in 1993, 1995, and 2005.

This year's championship also carries extra weight with major international incentives on offer.

The South African Open now hands the winner a direct ticket to the 2026 Masters, with the top three finishers – if not already exempt – also punching their passes to The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale.

It's a milestone moment for one of the world's oldest national opens. For the first time, the Masters exemption comes straight from this event, putting the SA Open firmly on the global stage.

Announced in August 2025 by Augusta National and The R&A, the move puts the tournament alongside a handful of elite national opens – including the Genesis Scottish Open, Japan Open, and Australian Open – giving top players a bigger spotlight and the chance to earn major starts.

The change is intended to enhance international representation in the fields of The Masters and The Open by creating clearer pathways through prestigious national open championships around the world.

For local and Sunshine Tour players, it's a game-changer, promising to provide stronger fields, tougher competition, and worldwide attention.