Els: "It is an invitational event and they have their reasons to invite somebody or not, and that's the sad part."

Chris Duncan of AP with comments from Ernie Els having resigned to missing his first Masters in a long time.

Els isn't expecting a call between now and Sunday, when the Masters field will be set.

"It is an invitational event," he said, "and they have their reasons to invite somebody or not, and that's the sad part. I'll probably miss it for the first time in 18 or 19 years. My streak will come to an end, unfortunately.

"I can't blame the Masters people for not inviting me. I've put myself in this position by not playing very well."

Brian Keogh reports on some strong words from Graeme McDowell about Els' status in Augusta.

“Ryo Ishikawa had one from outside the world’s Top 50.  The Masters Committee are well within their rights to do so.  I just think a guy like Ernie Els has to be a strong candidate. 

“Surely the green jackets have discussed him at length and decided that for whatever reason, he doesn’t deserve an invitation. But I think if you took a poll among the players as to guys who deserve the invite, he would be top of the list for sure.  Disappointing, obviously a blow to the field. 

“I was going to say let’s hope he wins this week.  I’ll be hoping to compete myself this week (laughter).  Be great the see Ernie Els at Augusta next week.  It’s a strange one, interesting one.”