Sergio Garcia makes clear excuse after LIV Golf star misses out on The Open

Sergio Garcia will not be participating in The Open Championship at Royal Troon this month after narrowly missing out during the final qualifying stage. The 44-year-old Spaniard posted rounds of 71 and 70 at West Lancashire Golf Club, falling just two shots short of securing a play-off spot. Garcia, who has sparked controversy within the golf community since joining LIV Golf in 2022, will be absent from the prestigious tournament.

During the qualifying event, Garcia confronted tournament officials after his group was warned for slow play. He claimed the warning disrupted his rhythm, particularly during the final holes, forcing him to rush his shots. Garcia argued that his group’s pace was hindered by spectators roaming the course, necessitating frequent stops to avoid hitting people.

“The marshals did their best, but we had to pause on nearly every tee for two or three minutes because people were walking on the fairways,” Garcia said. “We couldn’t hit unless we wanted to risk hitting someone. They didn’t account for this, and it was unfortunate because it forced us to rush. On a day with such tricky conditions, you sometimes need extra time. I made a couple of bogeys that might have cost me a spot at Troon.”

Garcia, who has competed in 99 major championships, is on track to reach his 100th major at the US Masters next April, where he is already guaranteed entry as a past champion. However, he has not played at The Open since 2022, where he finished tied for 68th. Despite his disappointment, Garcia remains positive about his efforts.

“I gave it my all to get into The Open,” Garcia remarked. “It would have been special to make The Open my 100th major, but the conditions were tough, and sometimes things don’t go your way. I tried everything I could, and that’s all I can ask of myself.”

Garcia will now focus on the upcoming LIV Golf event in his home country of Spain at Valderrama from July 12-14. He is currently seventh in the standings but has yet to secure a win on the Saudi-backed tour. Despite missing out on last year’s Ryder Cup, Garcia remains a celebrated figure in European golf, holding the record for the most points scored (28.5) in Ryder Cup history with six victories in ten appearances for Team Europe.