Open is a closed book for Sergio

Ryder Cup star Sergio Garcia is refreshed and ready to step back into the major spotlight after narrowly missing out at the Open Championship last month.

The Spaniard is rested and relaxed having taken some time out after a missed 10-foot par putt on the 72nd hole at Carnoustie dropped him into a play-off which he lost to eventual Claret Jug winner Padraig Harrington.

And he is looking forward to resuming his quest for a first major championship at Southern Hills when the US PGA Championship begins today.

“It wasn’t easy the first couple of days and week after,” Garcia said.

“But you get over it. I just had some fun with my friends and I managed to get through it.

“I played a bit of tennis and just went to the beach a couple of times, just to have fun, kind of get away from golf.”

Garcia returned to action last week at the Bridgestone Invitational, where he tied for 20th and showed some signs of life with a closing 67.

The strong finish at Firestone Country Club should give Garcia confidence this week, and he has learned to take positives out of his Open experience.

“I was the only one that had the winning putt in regulation,” said Garcia.

“To me, that means a lot. I think overall, it was a great experience to be up in the lead all week long. I think I learned a lot from it. I actually had a winning putt, which I hit a great putt, unfortunately it didn’t go in.”

And if he had the same opportunity this week?

“You know what, right now I would take leading the tournament by one shot on the 18th hole, I’ll take it right now,” Garcia said.

“I just hope that I have the winning putt here again and you know, whatever happens, at least if I’m in that position, I’ll be pretty happy with it.”