Ernie Els calls Firestone exit crushing and wants golf back in Akron.

The Kaulig Companies Championship ends Sunday at Firestone Country Club, closing a 72-year PGA Tour run in Akron. The PGA Tour Champions major is scheduled to move to Newport Beach, California, in 2027.

Els said he would try to use his influence behind the scenes to bring an event back. Rocco Mediate said players are sad, but a sponsor is needed.