Sergio Garcia

Sergio Garcia won the 2017 Masters Tournament at Augusta National, defeating Justin Rose in a sudden-death playoff. It was his first major championship victory after 73 previous major starts without a win, making it one of the most emotional breakthroughs in modern golf. He became the third Spanish golfer to win the Masters, after Seve Ballesteros and José María Olazábal.

Garcia joined LIV Golf in 2022, becoming one of the first high-profile European stars to sign with the Saudi-backed league. He cited a desire for a lighter schedule and frustration with PGA Tour policies as factors. His move meant he became ineligible for PGA Tour events and was initially suspended by the Tour.

Garcia has appeared in more Ryder Cups than any European player in history, with ten appearances from 1999 through 2021. He holds the all-time record for most Ryder Cup points earned by any player from either team. His partnership with fellow Spaniards and other European stars was a cornerstone of Europe's success over two decades.

Garcia's move to LIV Golf complicated his Ryder Cup eligibility, since European qualification requires DP World Tour membership. He initially resigned his membership but has since taken steps to rejoin in hopes of future eligibility. His status remains a subject of ongoing debate within European golf.