Augusta National Chairman Billy Payne indicated while ‘evaluating’ Ernie Els’ claim for a ‘Special Invitation’ the club ruled against the South African appearing in the 2012 Masters.

Els ended a run of 18 straight Masters appearances dating back to 1994 when the South African failed to qualify for this year’s Masters.

The triple Major champion slipped to No. 58 in the World Rankings and outside the top-50 to be assured of Augusta entry.

But while Japan’s Ryo Ishikawa was outside the top-50 in receiving a Special Invitation, Payne expressed the hope of seeing Els again competing on the Georgia golfing gem.

“First of all, I’d like to say we are great fans of Ernie,” said Payne.

“He’s a great player, and we expect him to be back with us shortly and often.  But we are evaluating all of the circumstances, we chose obviously not to extend an invitation but look forwad to seeing him soon.”