Dubai Desert Classic: Power ranking the top 10 at Emirates GC

7 of 11

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – JANUARY 28: Sergio Garcia of Spain tees off on the 2nd hole during the final round on day four of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club on January 28, 2018 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images) /

Sergio Garcia didn’t attend this event until 2007. He missed the cut the first time around Emirates GC, but that hasn’t deterred the Spaniard.

Garcia won the 2017 Dubai Desert Classic and has five top-20s here in eight starts. He romped to a three-shot victory by reaching 19-under (65-67-68-69).

He fits the mold of supreme ball strikers finding success here. In his win, the mercurial putter overcame a modest 34th ranking in putts per round by finishing second in driving accuracy (69.6 percent), third in driving distance (305 yards) and first in greens in regulation (81.9 percent).

Garcia finished fourth on the European Tour last season in strokes gained tee to green. His blend of distance and accuracy should allow him to feast on the par-5s this week.

Garcia played often in November and December but this will be his first start of 2019. He salvaged an underwhelming year by winning his host Andalucia Masters in the fall an proceeded with three straight top-25s to close the year.

Though it’s his first start of the year, he’s proven that doesn’t have to be a crutch. Garcia won the Singapore Open last January and has finished T11 or better in each of his last three year-opening events.

Home/Golf Power Rankings