Speaking shortly after title sponsor Commercial Bank had announced a three-year extension to its existing agreement, taking the company’s commitment to the tournament through to 2018, Garcia outlined his affection for an event in which he has finished inside the top ten in each of his last four appearances.
Having pushed Chris Wood all the way in 2013, Garcia went one better 12 months ago, courtesy of his epic play-off victory over Finland’s Mikko Ilonen.
Nobody has successfully defended the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters title but, given his impressive record at Doha Golf Club, few would bet against Garcia creating history in the desert this week.
Garcia will not be the only Spaniard with high hopes of lifting the coveted Mother of Pearl trophy, with Rafa Cabrera-Bello, tied third 12 months ago, and the 2009 champion Alvaro Quiros having also enjoyed success in the $2.5million tournament, which is this week celebrating its 18th edition.
Garcia was at a loss to explain why he and his countrymen seem to feel so at home in Qatar, but the warm weather and arid conditions certainly seem to suit the Tour’s large Spanish contingent.
On the course, Garcia is confident of building on the strong foundations he laid last season; and whilst he does not share Rory McIlroy’s fondness for writing his goals down on the back of a boarding pass, it is clear that happiness in his personal life has led to an increase in focus in his professional life.
He said: “I just try to play the best I can whenever I tee up. You can’t win every week, but as long as I come away feeling I’ve given it my best shot, then I’m happy. I want to keep improving and keep getting more consistent, which I managed last year. If I can build on last season, I should be in for a good year.”