Sergio Garcia has 25 wins on the PGA and European circuits, highlighted by capturing the 2017 Masters. Yet the Spainard’s career remains a topic of debate, some deeming Garcia’s success only a fraction of what could have been attained. Count Tony Jacklin among those who feel Garcia left much in the tank.
In an interview with Golfweek, Jacklin was asked who was the biggest underachiever in golf. His answer left little doubt in his feelings on the matter.
“Sergio Garcia. He’s been one of the best players on the planet for the last 20 years and doesn’t have much to show for it,” Jacklin told Golfweek. “Seve had more courage in his little finger than this lad. Don’t get me wrong, Sergio has been a prolific winner, but he had the ability to win double-digit Majors. Trevino said long ago, God never gave one man everything. Garcia would be the one that jumps out to me.”
Jacklin did note that Garcia is a “marvellous” Ryder Cup competitor, that he flourishes in a team environment rather than independently. He also credited Garcia for not stumbling at the 2017 Masters following a hiccup at Augusta National’s 13th hole.
Still, since his Masters triumph, Garcia has struggled in the United States, finishing 128th in the FedEx Cup in 2018 and 72nd in 2018, and currently sits 179th in this year’s standings. Garcia has also been besieged by a set of controversies, many self-inflicted. Jacklin thinks any chance of a turnaround from Garcia has passed.
“He’s 41 now [Garcia is actually 40], and I can’t see him being born again,” Jacklin said. “To think that he’s only won one Major as a ball-striker like he is, well, it’s mind-boggling.”