In what is probably an unfamiliar feeling for
Luke Donald, the world number one failed to make an impact during the opening round of the WGC-Accenture Match Play event and is now out of the tournament.
The 34-year-old Englishman - who turned professional in 2001 - lost out to sporting legend
Ernie Els at Dove Mountain as the South African clinched a five and four victory at the hotly-contested competition.
Els managed to put an end to Donald's title defence despite only being brought into the contest on an invitational basis after US professional
Phil Mickelson pulled out.
The talented player - who, like his English opponent, competed in the Northern Trust Open last weekend - finished the proceedings with a ten-foot birdie putt on the 14th hole.
"Luke had such an unbelievable year last year, winning both money list titles, I knew I had to play well and I did," Els commented after the match.
