Ernie Els finishes as top SA player

The Big Easy signed for a two-over-par 72 to end eight over for the tournament, well behind German winner Martin Kaymer who was nine-under for the week.

Louis Oosthuizen followed his third round 78 with a strong three-under 67 on day four, enough to earn a share of 40th place nine over for the event.

Also on nine over, was Garth Mulroy who stumbled to a 76 on the last day after he had started the day in a tie for 16th. A top-15 finish would have guaranteed Mulroy an automatic invitation to next year’s event.

Retief Goosen also battled, ending with a final round 75, ending 10 over for the year’s second Major. Goosen, a two-time champion in the event, was playing in his final year of his exemption period after last taking the title in 2004.

The Goose, like Mulroy, was seeking a top-15 place, having started the last 18 holes in 20th spot.

His six-over effort, though, meant Goosen fell to 45th overall.

– Sapa