Sergio Garcia did not have the opportunity to participate in last years Ryder Cup, where the European team triumphed over the US team. The experienced Spanish golfer limited his options by joining LIV Golf, which cost him the chance to compete in one of the most prestigious events, the Ryder Cup.
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The 44-year-old golfer, however, does not want to miss out on the next edition and hopes to return to the DP World Tour. By playing in several tournaments on the DP World Tour, Garcia could potentially qualify to compete in the Ryder Cup again.
Luke Donald, captain of the European team, hopes his squad can celebrate victory at Bethpage Black next year. Sergio Garcia would certainly be an important asset in their pursuit of a new trophy. The captain emphasized Garcias situation, acknowledging that he has resigned his membership but is now considering rejoining the DP World Tour.
If he fulfills the necessary procedures, the Spaniard will have the chance to represent the European team on the big stage once more.
When asked about Garcias intentions to rejoin the Tour for the 2025 season, Donald explained that they had a phone conversation a couple of weeks ago. He mentioned that Garcia is definitely interested in making a comeback. Donald emphasized that Garcia is aware of all the implications involved in this decision, and eventually, it will be up to him to determine if he is ready to take the necessary steps to rejoin.
Garcia knew that joining LIV Golf could jeopardize many aspects of his career, but the offer he received was too good to refuse. The experienced Spaniard was offered a huge amount of money and the opportunity to play fewer events, which was a key factor in his decision. Although Sergio understood that this could mean missing out on majors and the Ryder Cup, he ultimately had no hesitation in accepting the LIV Golf opportunity.
Many believe that the only chance for LIV golfers to regain their footing is through a unification between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. However, the question remains whether a final agreement will ever be reached, considering how long the discussions have dragged on.
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Donald reiterated that they had that discussion, emphasizing how well he knows Garcia and how important his return would be for the team.
Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton: What can we expect?
An inevitable topic of discussion was Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton, who are also important to the team. Their decision to join LIV Golf after the Ryder Cup has sparked various debates and discussions. During the press conference, Donald addressed both players.
Interestingly, the Spaniard and the Englishman expressed their concerns about the penalties imposed by the DP World Tour, but participating in four DP World Tour events allows them to compete.
When asked whether it would mean more for him if Rahm and Hatton were part of the team automatically rather than as captain's picks, Donald stated that they are amazing golfers. He believes that if they continue to play well, they have a good chance of qualifying automatically. This, he stressed, would serve as additional motivation for both Rahm and Hatton.
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Luke Donald mentioned that the concept of awarding Ryder Cup-qualifying points to LIV players was definitely discussed among key figures in the sport.
Donald explained that the decision regarding Ryder Cup-qualifying points for LIV players rested with the DP World Tour. Given the current state of negotiations and the situation in the golf world, he felt it wasnt necessary to make any changes. He stressed that this was not the situation in Rome, emphasizing that they have been consistent in their approach to qualification. European captain expressed satisfaction with the current qualification criteria, adding that he believes everyone, including the players on LIV, understands and accepts this.
