Ernie Els

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.

Heavily involved in junior golf of South Africa and Cancer Society of South Africa.

Hosts Ernie Els Invitational in South Africa to raise money for charity. Ernie Els 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.

In 2002, the 2000 Engelbrecht-Els wine was released and received the highest rating yet given to a South African wine.

Third Ernie Els design signature golf course near George in South Africa opened in 2004.