A Masters win and that iconic Green Jacket is something every golfer wants at least once in their lifetime. For Sergio Garcia, that dream became a reality on April 9, 2017, when he won the Masters on the first sudden-death playoff hole against Justin Rose. Garcia’s historic victory marked a milestone in his career, and as he looks back on that unforgettable Sunday, he shares his thoughts on the emotions and experiences that made it all so special.

Garcia recalls the mix of nerves and excitement he felt heading into the final round, tied for the lead with Rose. His mental toughness played a significant role in his victory, as he remained focused even when missing crucial birdie putts. With a three-shot lead after Rose bogeyed the fifth, Garcia maintained his composure, aware that Sundays at Augusta can be notoriously long and unpredictable. This strategic mindset ultimately led him to claim his first Major title, becoming the third Spanish player to don the coveted Green Jacket.

Recently, Garcia took a trip down memory lane, reflecting on his iconic Masters win in an Instagram post. He shared a heartfelt video where he reminisced about the thrilling playoff against Justin Rose. Garcia vividly recalled the moment when he sank a crucial birdie putt, saying, “When it comes down to how I managed to win the Masters… Rose was playing great, we were going to a playoff, and I think, ‘Okay, if you make a birdie, you’re not gonna lose.'” The excitement and emotion of that moment still linger, leaving Garcia with goosebumps. “I remember the cheers; it was unbelievable, like I still get Goosebumps. It’s just a dream come true and a feeling and an experience that it was second to none.”

As Garcia prepares to compete in the 2025 Masters, his nostalgia serves as a reminder of his past glory and eagerness to create new memories at Augusta. Still, we can’t ignore the lackluster performances he has had after joining LIV Golf, and the golfer has spoken about the lack of benefits on the rival tour himself. With 40 days to go until his 100th major, Garcia expressed his gratitude in his caption by writing, “40 days away from my 100th major in Augusta. Couldn’t be more excited and grateful for the opportunity to compete at the 2025 Masters⛳️”. As he tees off in this milestone tournament, Garcia’s passion and dedication to the game remain unshaken.

Now, back to the 2017 Masters, the moment of Garcia’s win was made more special because of Rose’s amazing sportsmanship and their long-standing friendship.

Justin Rose believed “nobody deserved” the 2017 Masters trophy than Sergio Garcia

You know, the 2017 Masters was one of those moments that reminds you why golf is such an amazing sport. Sergio Garcia finally got his hands on a major title, and it was made all the sweeter by Justin Rose’s incredible sportsmanship. I mean, can you imagine coming so close to winning, only to see your friend and rival take the crown? It’s a tough pill to swallow, but Rose’s response was pure class. “We’ve played a lot of golf together since we were about 14 years old,” Rose said. “We’ve always had a good friendship and a good camaraderie and good rivalry.”

He congratulated Garcia with a warmth and sincerity that was genuinely touching. Rose’s words to Garcia spoke volumes about the kind of person he is – gracious, humble, and respectful. “Nobody deserved it more than you do,” he said, and you could tell he meant every word. Garcia’s win was the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance, and Rose’s acknowledgement of that made the moment even more special.

But what made Rose’s gesture even more impressive was the context of the tournament. Garcia and Rose had been locked in a fierce battle all day, trading blows and neither giving an inch. Rose had played some of the best golf of his life, shooting a 69 to force a playoff. But in the end, it was Garcia who emerged victorious, sinking a 12-foot birdie putt on the first playoff hole to win the title. Despite the disappointment of coming so close, Rose’s reaction was a testament to his character. He could have easily been bitter or frustrated, but instead, he chose to be gracious and congratulatory. It was a moment that showed the true spirit of golf and one that will be remembered for a long time to come.