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Cape Town - Ernie Els has insisted his desire to succeed still burns as strong as ever as he returns to a familiar hunting ground later this month at the Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club.
One of the most prolific winners of his generation, Els enjoys fond memories of the longest-running European Tour event in region, having won it a record three times.
'The Big Easy' is now relishing the chance to extend the incredible feat and turn the page on a disappointing 2017 season.
"My hunger for competition is as strong as ever. It's all about fighting hard to get something going, some momentum rolling. Hopefully, good memories of the Majlis course will come in very handy," said the four-time Major winner.
"I think everyone knows I love playing in Dubai. I like the lines off the tees and the greens are quite soft so if you get your ball up, you can shoot some good scores," said Els.
He still holds the course record of 61 where he shot en route an emphatic six-shot victory at the 1994 edition of the event - his first on the European Tour.
"I always look forward to coming back and playing in this wonderful tournament," he said.
"Results-wise, 2017 season may have been a bit disappointing, but the good thing is that I feel like my game has been in better shape than the scores suggested," said the former No 1, who boasts 70 professional career victories.
Els is the latest star to commit to the Dubai Desert Classic along with Graeme McDowell, Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer and Ian Poulter further bolstering a stellar cast headlined by defending champion Sergio Garcia, Rory McIlroy and 'Volcano' Pat Perez.
David Spencer, the tournament director, said: "We are delighted to welcome our only three-time champion back in Dubai. A great friend of Dubai, Ernie is a true ambassador of golf, having won across five continents. He plays his golf with the deftness of an artist, which is a treat to watch for any golf fan."
The Dubai Desert Classic gets underway at Emirates Golf Club from January 25-28.
