Started playing golf at age 9.

An accomplished junior tennis player, he won the Eastern Transvall Junior Championships at age 13. Turned full attention to golf at age 14 after also playing cricket, soccer and rugby.

Hosts Ernie Els Invitational in South Africa to raise money for charity. The Ernie Els & Fancourt Foundation formed in early 1999, with the purpose of providing full support to disadvantaged children. Proceeds from the Ernie Els Invitational go to four charities and the Foundation.

Established the Els for Autism Foundation in spring 2009, with son, Ben, who is autistic, the driving force behind the mission. Opened the first components of The Els Center of Excellence on August 17, 2015. The Center, based in Jupiter, Fla., serves local, national and international autism communities and aims to be a game-changing resource in the field.

Was named the 2015 Payne Stewart Award recipient.

In December 1998, received lifetime membership on European Tour. Other non-Europeans so honored are Bob Charles, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player.

Was a scratch golfer at age 14, when he won the World Junior Golf Championship under-14 title in San Diego, beating Phil Mickelson.

Was awarded the Junior Springbok colours–awarded to South African teams and individuals who performed well in international competition.

In 1987, he received the State President Sports Award and received his full Springbok colours in 1988.