From Champion to Course Designer – The Ernie Els Legacy
South Africa is home to several outstanding golf courses designed by golfing legend Ernie Els, each reflecting his philosophy of creating layouts that are both challenging and enjoyable for players of all abilities. Ernie Els remains highly active both on and off the golf course, continuing to compete successfully on the PGA TOUR Champions while expanding his international golf course design business and philanthropic initiatives.
One of his most celebrated designs is Oubaai Golf Club near George on the Garden Route. Opened in 2005, it was the first course Els designed in his homeland and remains one of the country’s most scenic golfing destinations. Perched above the Indian Ocean, Oubaai combines dramatic coastal views, rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and immaculate greens to create a memorable championship golfing experience.
In Gauteng, The Els Club at Copperleaf has become one of South Africa’s premier inland golf courses. Set against the backdrop of the Magaliesberg Mountains, this championship layout showcases wide fairways, natural wetlands, and a classic design that rewards strategic play while remaining accessible to golfers of varying skill levels. The course has also hosted professional tour events, further cementing its reputation.
More recently, Els added another masterpiece to his South African portfolio with Zimbali Lakes Golf Course on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast. Designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, the course offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, lakes, and coastal landscapes. Sustainability and environmental sensitivity were key elements in its development, creating a modern golfing destination that complements the region’s luxury lifestyle offerings.
Together, these courses showcase Ernie Els’ ability to create world-class golfing experiences across diverse South African landscapes, from dramatic coastlines and mountain vistas to expansive Highveld grasslands. Each course reflects his commitment to strategic design, natural beauty, and exceptional playability, making them must-play destinations for golfers visiting South Africa.
Tournament Highlights
A four-time major champion, Els continues to be one of the leading players on the PGA TOUR Champions. Building on a remarkable professional career that includes more than 80 tournament victories worldwide, he recently secured an impressive season-opening triumph at the Mitsubishi Electric Championship with a winning score of 18-under-par.
In Europe, Els marked another milestone with the official launch of The Els Club Vilamoura in Portugal. The acclaimed venue is set to host its inaugural PGA TOUR Champions Invitational in July 2026, further enhancing its reputation on the international golfing stage.
Golf Course Design and Development
Through Ernie Els Design, he continues to leave a significant mark on the global golf landscape. One of the firm’s latest achievements is the opening of the new clubhouse at the prestigious Zimbali Lakes development on South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal North Coast.
His design portfolio now spans several continents, featuring world-class golf destinations. Among its standout successes is The Els Club Teluk Datai in Malaysia, which received international recognition after being named ‘World’s Best New Golf Course’ at the World Golf Awards.
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