Ernie Els is backing Adam Scott to bounce back from his Royal Lytham heartbreak and join him as a multiple major winner.

While Els could not wait to see his family at their Wentworth home after ending a decade of torment in the majors himself, the 32-year-old Australian was trying to come to terms with bogeying the last four holes to lose by one.

But golf’s “Big Easy”, who now has two Claret Jugs to sit alongside his two US Opens, is predicting big things from his Presidents Cup teammate.

“I’ve been there,” said Els, visibly shocked that his closing 15-foot birdie putt had won him the title again after he had been six behind at the turn and still four back entering the closing stretch.

“I’ve blown majors before and golf tournaments before and I just hope he doesn’t take it as hard as I did.

“I feel for him – I’ve been on the other end more times than I’ve actually been on the winning end and it’s not a good feeling.

“But thankfully he’s young enough. He’s got the next 10 years. I’ve won four now – I think he can win more than that.”

Scott has to think more short-term – to his defence of the Bridgestone world championship in Ohio next week and then the USPGA Championship at Kiawah Island in South Carolina a week later.

“Hopefully I can let it go really quick and get on with what I plan to do,” he said. “I’m sure there will be a next time and I’m sure I can do a better job of it.”