Ernie Els’ remarkable 2024 season hit another high note on Sunday, clinching the American Family Insurance Championship in a dramatic playoff, marking his second consecutive PGA TOUR Champions victory.
The XXIO Global Ambassador showcased his golfing prowess with a mixed bag of XXIO, Srixon Irons, and Cleveland Golf Wedges, solidifying his status as one of the tour’s standout players.
The Road to Victory
Opening the tournament with a 1-under 71, Els set a solid foundation but truly came alive in the second round with a blistering 64, catapulting him to the top of the leaderboard for the second tournament in a row.
Tied for the lead going into the final round, Els faced tough conditions but remained composed, carding a 3-under 69 to finish at 12-under for the tournament.
Els’ performance on the back nine was nothing short of spectacular. With four birdies in a five-hole stretch, he propelled himself into a playoff, demonstrating the kind of clutch play that has defined his career.
In the playoff, it took just one hole for Els to secure victory, making him the first PGA TOUR Champions player to win back-to-back events since his playoff competitor achieved the same feat last year.
“You’ve got to just play proper golf,” Els said, reflecting on his performance. “I’m striking it good. I’m just hanging in there and trying to get my chances where they come.”
WITB: The Gear Behind the Glory
Els’ equipment played a crucial role in his success. Leading the charge were his Srixon ZX7 Mk II Irons, which helped him hit an impressive 80% of greens in regulation throughout the week, a testament to his precision and consistency.
Here’s a detailed look at the clubs Ernie Els used to conquer the American Family Insurance Championship:
- XXIO Fairway (3)
- Srixon ZU85 Utility Irons (2i, 4i, 5i)
- Srixon ZX7 Mk II Irons (6-PW)
- Cleveland Golf RTX 6 ZipCore Wedges (52° MID, 56° FULL, 60° FULL)
- Srixon Z-STAR XV Tour Yellow
This meticulously selected arsenal underscores the importance of having the right tools for the job, particularly in high-stakes situations.
A Stellar Season Continues
With this latest victory, Els moves to third in the Schwab Cup standings, further cementing his position as a dominant force on the PGA TOUR Champions circuit.
His ability to maintain top form across consecutive tournaments speaks volumes about his enduring talent and dedication to the sport.
The season has been a testament to Els’ resilience and skill, qualities that have defined his illustrious career.
As he continues to rise through the ranks, fans and competitors alike will be keenly watching his every move.
Ernie Els’ back-to-back victories highlight a golfer at the peak of his game, blending skill, strategy, and top-notch equipment to achieve remarkable results.
His triumph at the American Family Insurance Championship is a reminder of why he remains one of golf’s most respected and admired figures.
For those inspired by Els’ performance and looking to learn more about the equipment that helped him secure his latest win, visit us.dunlopsports.com for further details on his gear.
