Once-discouraged Els finds more Open glory

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Just a year ago, Ernie Els figured his days of winning major golf titles were over. He had not won a major since 2002 and his results even in lesser events were sending discouraging signals. All of that only made his shocking victory on Sunday at the British Open ever sweeter, four birdies on the back nine pushing him to a one-stroke victory over Adam Scott, who cost himself a major with bogeys on the last four holes. “Last year, no, I thought I had no chance,” Els said. “Last year was really a pretty big hole. But since the start of the year and especially the last month or two, I started seeing some better signs and started believing in that. “I was in a good frame of mind. So for once it all came together. “To come through all of that and sit here with the Claret Jug is crazy. It comes from a good attitude, being a bit more relaxed and believing in yourself.”