Sergio Garcia Leaves LIV, Eyes Ryder Cup Return

Sergio Garcia has quit LIV Golf and says he wants to return to Europe's Ryder Cup team. The 46-year-old Spaniard will play the Europe-based DP World Tour in 2027.

"This tour has been a huge part of my career from the beginning and I'm proud to call it home again," Garcia said in a statement on social media. He added: "I'm also keeping my options open for a return to the PGA Tour."

He said "the most exciting part for me is strengthening personal relationships, both new and old."

Garcia won 27 titles on the American and European circuits between 1999 and 2020, including the 2017 Masters. It took him 74 events to win that first and so far only major title. He joined LIV in June 2022, when the Saudi Arabia-backed league launched. He will not be part of the second phase of the circuit.

LIV's backing and bankruptcy filing

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund withdrew its backing in April after investing more than $5bn. LIV filed for bankruptcy protection in the United States last month. The league has secured possible financing of $300m for what it calls "LIV 2.0". Only a handful of players have committed to the proposed 2027 competition so far. Garcia follows Jon Rahm, Ian Poulter, Tyrrell Hatton and Graeme McDowell in announcing his departure.

The DP World Tour sanctioned Garcia for breaking its rules when he defected, which made him ineligible for the 2023 Ryder Cup. As Europe's record points scorer in the event, he had to settle outstanding fines, reported to be more than £1m, to be eligible for 2025. He was not selected. He helped Europe to six wins from 10 Ryder Cup appearances. He now hopes to join the team at Adare Manor in Ireland next year as a player or vice-captain.

"Another goal is to make that Ryder Cup team, and to be an asset to the guys in whatever capacity that may be," he said. Under current tour rules, Garcia is eligible to play again but cannot serve as a future captain or vice-captain.

He may face an awkward reunion with the PGA Tour. Just before leaving for LIV in 2022, he told a rules official at the Wells Fargo Championship: "I can't wait to leave this tour. A couple more weeks and I won't have to deal with you any more."

Garcia has stayed eligible for the majors. After a poor shot at this year's Masters he slammed his driver into the Augusta turf and hit a nearby cooler, snapping the head off his club. He apologised at the time and has now added: "There are some great tournaments around the world to play before Augusta next April, and I can't wait to get back to the Masters." He also said: "I left Augusta last year disappointed with myself and my actions, and I'm ready to show what I've learned and where I am mentally." "Augusta has given me some of the greatest moments of my life, and I'd love nothing more than to chase another green jacket at such a special place."

Source: BBC Sport