Dean & Deluca Invitational power rankings
2. Sergio Garcia
Official World Ranking: 5, FedEx Cup: 13
Colonial History: Champion, 2001 (Last appearance – T13, 2012)
Sixteen years ago, in the midst of Tiger Woods’ reign as the most dominant golfer in the world, 21-year-old Sergio Garcia made his first breakthrough on the PGA TOUR. In his third season as a pro, Garcia won what was then known as the Mastercard Colonial, holding off Brian Gay and Phil Mickelson for the victory.
Since then, we’ve watched Garcia’s ups and downs, but if anybody can “come of age” at 37 years old, it’s Garcia in 2017. His Masters victory in April gave him the career validation he’s so long desired, but it’s also indicative of the player he still is.
Garcia hasn’t played at Colonial since 2012, but he has typically fared well at Hogan’s Alley, finishing tied for 16th in 2011, and tied for 13th in 2012.
While Garcia maintains a relatively limited schedule on the PGA TOUR – he’s played just nine events this season – it certainly seems to be paying off. Garcia has finished outside the top 30 in just one tournament this year, and he ranks third on Tour in adjusted scoring.
Sergio can be a bit streaky at times, but considering the way this year has gone so far, I’m banking on more big things to come.