Included in this heavyweight group is Sergio Garcia. The gifted Spaniard loves the challenge of an Open Championship, although he has much to prove. After this year's Masters, the World No 21 told Spanish reporters "I'm not good enough, I don't have the thing I need to have. I had my chances and opportunities [in the majors] and I wasted them. I have no more options. I wasted my options."
Garcia’s closest shaves among 17 top 10 finishes in majors date back to his runner-up finish to Tiger Woods in the 1999 PGA Championship at Medinah, site of this year’s Ryder Cup, a play-off loss to Padraig Harrington in the 2007 Open at Carnoustie and a second place finish, again to Harrington, at the 2008 US PGA at Oakland Hills. Heading to Lytham, Garcia is 0 – 55 in majors.
Were these statements at Augusta simply refreshing candour or a resigned acceptance of fate from the 32-year-old? Garcia need only look back to the then 42-year-old Clarke’s victory at Royal St George's 12 months ago however to realise that he has time very much on his side. Fred Couples, Tom Kite, Davis Love III, Phil Mickelson and Corey Pavin were all older than the at-times petulant Garcia when they bagged their majors.
Perhaps the inspiration of Ballesteros will visit Garcia at Lytham, where you can be sure he'll receive thunderous support from the most knowledgeable galleries in the game.
After his many near misses and his impassioned Ryder Cup exploits for Europe, his would be as popular and emotional victory as any.
