Ernie Els finished as the top player from South Africa, with a share for 35th spot in the final round of the US Open at Pinehurst No 2 in North Carolina on Sunday.

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

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

Ratief Goosen, who was playing in his final year of his exemption period after last taking the title in 2004, ended with a final round 75 to end 10 over for this year’s second Major.

Overall, the Goose finished in 45th place alongside Garth Mulroy who stumbled to a 76 on the last day after he had started the day in a tie for 16th.