2017 Masters Champion: Sergio Garcia

The 2017 Masters was full of drama and what a tournament golf fans were treated to this week. In the end, on what would be the 60th birthday of Spanish legend Seve Ballesteros, fellow countryman Sergio Garcia finally broke through for his first Major title. The first two rounds exuded tough conditions, with high wind challenging players at every turn. But the weather was perfect on the weekend and the players, in particular Sergio Garcia and Olympic Gold Medalist Justin Rose, put on a show for all of us.

The leaderboard was packed heading into the final day of the 2017 Masters. Sitting at the top were Sergio and Justin however, not far behind were Rickie Fowler, Jordan Spieth, Ryan Moore and Charley Hoffman, who were all within striking distance. It did not take long before Sergio and Justin separated themselves from the pack and it was a back and forth battle through the final round.

Momentum swung both ways, especially through Amen Corner. For a while, it looked like Justin Rose would capture his first green jacket with his strong play while Sergio made a few crucial mistakes that had him two strokes back. However, Sergio never gave up and battled back, making birdie on the 14th and making a clutch eagle on the 15th. There were a few putts that were missed by both players in the final few holes and extra holes were needed to decide a champion.

In the first sudden death playoff hole, Justin Rose sprayed his drive right while Sergio was in perfect position on the fairway. After punching out, Justin could only make bogey but it didn’t matter. Sergio calmly nailed his birdie putt and with it, captured his first Major title of the year. It was pure elation for the 37 year old Spaniard. With the first Major of the year behind us, we now look towards The Players Championship in May as the next big tournament, and after that, the 2017 US Open in June, which will be held at Erin Hills.

Source: PGA Tour