Garcia poised to finally claim a major
Monday, 23 July 2007
CARNOUSTIE (Scotland), Jul 22 (AP): The cheers grew louder as Sergio Garcia crossed the bridge over Barry Burn toward the 18th green at Carnoustie, a reception so warm it gave him chills. He removed his cap in a steady rain and soaked up the adulation. It was a scene fit for a coronation at the British Open.
For Garcia, the odds have never been better. He has never played better or felt so confident.
Garcia played close to perfection Saturday, a 3-under 68 that gave him a three-shot lead over Steve Stricker, with no one else closer than six shots. And while this will be the third time he has played in the final group at a major, there are two drastic differences.
He has the lead this time, and Tiger Woods won't be at his side.
"It definitely doesn't hurt," Garcia said. "But it doesn't matter. At the end of the day, I only depend on myself."
For Garcia, the odds have never been better. He has never played better or felt so confident.
Garcia played close to perfection Saturday, a 3-under 68 that gave him a three-shot lead over Steve Stricker, with no one else closer than six shots. And while this will be the third time he has played in the final group at a major, there are two drastic differences.
He has the lead this time, and Tiger Woods won't be at his side.
"It definitely doesn't hurt," Garcia said. "But it doesn't matter. At the end of the day, I only depend on myself."