Passion, rage and opportunity at Augusta National

Sergio Garcia was issued with a code of conduct warning after breaking his driver on the second hole at The Masters

Sergio Garcia won The Masters in 2017. Pic: Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Passion is in the air. At the end of Magnolia Lane just in front of the Augusta National clubhouse is Founders Circle, the only picture opportunity on the course. The day there started with several baby announcements and a proposal.

Mississippi couple Kade McGill and Holly Davidson queued for a photo at the iconic spot before the former whispered his plan to the on-course photographer. He only came across badges for the final tournament round late and immediately decided to make the most of the opportunity.

“I had absolutely no idea. I am still shaking,” said Davidson, who obviously said yes to the proposal. As always at the Masters, the lesson is to take your chance when it comes.

Sunday started in contrasting fashion between the ropes when 2017 champion Sergio García broke his driver on No. 2 after an outburst on the tee box. Having started with a bogey, Garcia arrived at the par 5 Pink Dogwood in foul form. A drive to the right soon saw him smash his club into the turf twice, then swing at a cooler before eventually snapping the head off the shaft.

The 46-year-old was playing with fellow Spaniard Jon Rahm and eventually carded a 75 to finish eight-over for the tournament.

It is not the first case of such on-course rage. In last year's final round of the Open Championship at Royal Portrush, Garcia played most of the final round without a driver after he broke it early on.

Chairman of the competition committee Geoff Yang spoke to Garcia on the fourth tee and issued the code of conduct warning.

However, he wasn’t in the mood to reveal what the official said to him.

“I am not going to tell you,” he said after his round.

Ever since he saw off Justin Rose in a playoff, Garcia has struggled at this course. Why?

“Bad golf.” Is there something specific that has happened?

“Bad shots.” That is all he was willing to say. Nothing more to it.

“Well, if you don't hit good shots, you're not going to score well here. It is very simple.” There was a lighter moment when he ended up carrying Rahm’s clubs for a spell.

“There was nothing. Adam stopped to rake my bunker, and Benji, my caddie, was carrying both bags, so I told him, just put it down, I will get it so you can go and get a yardage. Just as simple as that.” 

Elsewhere, the first groups out all demonstrated that Sunday will be a scoring day. Despite constant fears about how the sweltering conditions could make it firm and fast, talented players are making moves.

Ludvig Åberg started with three birdies. Jon Rahm, who opened the week with a disappointing 78, carded 68. Houston Open champion Gary Woodland registered a 66.

It was yet another reminder of the wonderous opportunity that permeates this place.