Els back at European Open for first time in 15 years

London, May 02: Ernie Els will make his first appearance in the European Open for 15 years when he lines up at the London Club this month.

Among the popular South African's title rivals will be world number three Sergio Garcia, 15th-ranked Lee Westwood and number 17 Rory McIlroy.

Els last played at the European Open when it was held at the East Sussex National in 1994, the year he claimed the first of his three majors with victory in the US Open at Oakmont.

"It's been a while since I last played in the European Open so I am very much looking forward to playing in Kent and getting my first taste of the London Club," the 39-year-old said in a news release.

"I have heard great things about the set up and the wonderful atmosphere last year and I'm looking forward to having a crack at the title."

Spectators will get free admission for all four days of the May 28-31 tournament.

Last year fans were allowed in for free for the first round only, attracting a crowd of almost 24,000.