Ernie Els confirmed for Qatar Masters

Ernie Els has confirmed his attendance in next week’s Qatar Masters, the second leg of the Race to Dubai’s ‘Gulf Swing’

Ernie Els

Ernie Els has confirmed his attendance in next week’s Qatar Masters, the second leg of the Race to Dubai’s ‘Gulf Swing’.  

The South African, who finished in a tie for sixth at the Mercedes-Benz Championship last week, will attempt to claim back the title he won in 2005.

The Qatar Masters will be played at the 7,388-yard Doha Golf Club, but big-hitting Ernie will face strong opposition from a 120-man field.  

Defending champion Adam Scott, Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson and Retief Goosen, will all be bidding to win the event, and boost their Race to Dubai standings.   

Gallery: Race to Dubai favourites

But, Els is confident of coming good this season after a disappointing 2008 by his own high standards, and cited his putting as a key area for improvement.

Els revealed: “I’ve been working with Bob Rotella on some new ideas. We came up with a routine which helps get me comfortable over the ball.

“Overall I’d say I’m trying to putt like I did in my 20s. It’s starting to feel pretty comfortable and I putted well in my last few tournaments of the year. If I can build on that then 2009 should be a good year for me.”

Where next?

Tour news: Europe unable to reach Ryder Cup captain decision Betting: Abu Dhabi Golf Championship betting Equipment: New golf clubs for 2009

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