Player Profile - Sergio Garcia

This week's player profile highlights the career of Spanish golf champion Sergio Garcia, winner of the 2011 Castello Masters.

Born in 1980 in the town of Borriol, Spain, Garcia took to the game of golf at a very young age. When he was just three years old Garcia picked up his first golf club, and was taught to play the game by his father Victor, a professional club golfer.

By the time Garcia was twelve years old, he had won his club championship and had his sights fixed on competitive golf. Three years later, in 1995, he became the youngest player to make the cut at a European Tour event when he took part in the Turespana Open Mediterranea. In the same year Garcia won the European Amateur, setting another record for youngest champion.

In 1999, at the age of 19, Garcia turned professional after carding the lowest amateur score at the 1999 US Masters. After just a few months on the European Tour, he carded his first victory at the Irish Open. Later that season, Garcia came second at the PGA Championship after a heavy-weather final round in which he faced off against Tiger Woods, who was world number one at the time. It was during the final round of this tournament that Garcia famously hit a ball from the rough with his eyes shut, landing it cleanly on the green. Several victories followed this initial win, including the Players Championship and the European Masters.

Garcia is also known for the unusual shape of his swing, reminiscent of Ben Hogan. His habit of re-gripping his club several times before taking a shot, known as a 'waggle' has drawn criticism from some, but it remains his own unique characteristic and the champion proudly defends his unique swing.

On Sunday, Sergio Garcia won his first tournament in three years when he won the Castello Masters. Sensing a comeback from this talented player, golf fans will be eagerly awaiting Garcia's performances in the 2012 season.

Golfweather Editorial