Johannesburg - Ernie Els withdrew from next week's Volvo Golf Champions in Durban, as well as the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, to spend more time with his family, he said in a statement on Thursday.
"I am really sorry to miss the Volvo Golf Champions and the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, but for personal reasons I have decided to remain at home with my family and play my first event once my children return to school," said the 44-year-old, currently ranked 27th in the world.
"I apologise for the inconvenience and late notice of the decision but wish Volvo and HSBC the best of luck with their tournaments and look forward to playing in South Africa again soon."
Defending champion Louis Oosthuizen will head the field for the 2014 Volvo Golf Champions at Durban Country Club from January 9-12.