Ernie Els secured his first senior major title by winning the Kaulig Companies Championship with a one-stroke victory over Y.E. Yang at Firestone in Akron, Ohio. Els closed with a 2-under 68, showcasing his resilience by paring the final two holes after a bogey on the 16th. The 54-year-old South African became the PGA Tour Champions' first three-time winner this season and clinched his sixth victory on the 50-and-over tour.
Reflecting on his nerve-wracking final holes, Els admitted, 'It was quite a day.' Despite his illustrious career that includes four regular major championships, Els expressed his desire to continue performing well and accumulating wins. His total score of 10-under 270, following impressive opening rounds of 68 and 64, earned him $525,000 and a coveted spot in The Players Championship in March.
Y.E. Yang, who finished a stroke behind Els, acknowledged the challenging conditions, stating, 'Today just one shot, one shot, keep going.' Jerry Kelly, the 2020 and 2022 champion, secured third place at 7 under after carding a 69. Defending champion Steve Stricker, who shot 73, tied for fourth at 6 under after a tumultuous round that included a triple bogey on the 14th.
Despite the windy conditions, the competition remained fierce, with K.J. Choi also finishing at 6 under after a solid 70. Els' victory not only solidified his status as a golfing legend but also highlighted the competitive nature of the PGA Tour Champions. As Els savored his triumph, he emphasized his eagerness to continue competing and striving for success in the future.
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