Sergio Garcia, one of Spain’s most celebrated golfers, will be notably absent from this year’s Spanish Open, following his resignation from the DP World Tour. Despite his illustrious career, which includes being the all-time points leader in Ryder Cup history, Garcia's relationship with the European circuit has taken a turn in recent years.
While three other Spanish golfers from LIV Golf are returning to the DP World Tour for the event in Madrid, Garcia’s resignation, following a dispute over competing in LIV Golf events, means he will not participate.
Garcia was one of several prominent European players, including Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood, and Henrik Stenson, to make the controversial move to LIV Golf. Unlike the PGA Tour, which imposed immediate bans on players joining LIV, the DP World Tour engaged in a prolonged legal battle, ultimately winning the right to fine and suspend members participating in LIV tournaments.
The fallout led to Garcia's decision to end his 27-year affiliation with the DP World Tour, signaling an end to his Ryder Cup career as well. Though Garcia has expressed a desire to return to the European circuit, his sanctions remain unresolved, leaving Spanish golf fans without one of their greatest icons at this year's home event.
Despite his absence, Garcia remains supportive of the Spanish Open, saying, “I wish I could play, but I’ve had the pleasure of competing in this event before, and it’s a huge occasion for Spain and Spanish golf. I’m sure it will be an amazing week.”
Leading the charge for Spanish golf at the event is fellow LIV star Jon Rahm. Rahm faces his own challenges with the DP World Tour, needing to fulfill specific tournament requirements to remain eligible for next year’s Ryder Cup. Nonetheless, Rahm has confirmed his participation, with Garcia emphasizing the importance of having top Spanish players competing on home soil.
Alongside Rahm, fellow LIV members David Puig and Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra will also represent Spain in Madrid. Both players, part of Garcia’s Fireballs team on the LIV circuit, have qualified through the DP World Tour's national exemption spots.
Garcia expressed his pride in seeing Puig and Lopez-Chacarra compete, stating, “It’s great to have more Spanish players in the mix. I’m very proud of them, and I hope they have a great week representing Spain.”
While Garcia’s absence will be felt, the tournament promises to showcase the depth of talent in Spanish golf, with hopes that his legacy continues to inspire the next generation of players.