Sergio Garcia’s Desperate Attempt to Play in the Ryder Cup Rebuffed by the DP World Tour
Sergio Garcia, the Ryder Cup’s all-time leading points scorer, made a last-ditch effort to secure his spot in this month’s event in Rome. However, his attempt was rejected by the DP World Tour due to his resignation from the tour earlier in the year.
Garcia chose not to pay the £100,000 fine imposed on him for joining the breakaway LIV Golf League and subsequently handed in his membership card. Despite this, Garcia recently repaired his relationship with Rory McIlroy and expressed a desire to participate in the Ryder Cup. He also maintained a close relationship with Europe captain Luke Donald.
However, the DP World Tour, citing Garcia’s resignation, informed him that he would not be eligible to rejoin until next year. In an audacious move, Garcia offered to pay all outstanding fines, estimated to be over £700,000, as well as participate in other events organized by the Tour. Yet, his plea was ultimately rejected.
A Tour insider revealed the details of Garcia’s attempted U-turn, stating, “They suddenly came to us and said that not only would he pay the £100,000 but also all of the outstanding fines if he was allowed to play.” However, the insider emphasized that Garcia’s resignation meant he was ineligible to participate. The insider also highlighted that Garcia is the only player among the LIV Golf League members who hasn’t paid the original fine.
Europe captain Luke Donald was reportedly not part of these discussions, and it is understood that Garcia has not been considered for the Ryder Cup team since his resignation. On the other hand, Jon Rahm, the world No 3 and Garcia’s compatriot, expressed his desire to have Garcia on the team, citing his experience and success in Ryder Cup matches.
Garcia and Rahm were the only bright spots for Europe in their heavy defeat at Whistling Straits two years ago, winning all three of their matches together. Rahm believes that Garcia’s presence would be invaluable for the European team. “I think it would be really stupid for anybody not to lean on Sergio García’s experience in the Ryder Cup,” Rahm stated. “He is the best player Europe has ever had, won the most points, and he has shown it time and time again.”
While Garcia’s attempt to play in the Ryder Cup has been unsuccessful, his legacy as one of Europe’s greatest Ryder Cup players remains intact. The highly anticipated event in Rome will undoubtedly miss Garcia’s talent and experience on the course.