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Masters champion releases statement after Augusta meltdown as chiefs told to issue ban

Golf is a sport which can cause anybody to become enraged, as was seen in one Masters winner's display at Augusta on the weekend

[AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 09: Sergio Garcia of Spain looks on from the 13th green during the first round of the 2026 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 09, 2026 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)]

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Sergio Garcia has slated for his behaviour at Augusta(Image: Andrew Redington, Getty Images)

Sergio Garcia has issued a grovelling apology for his explosive behaviour at the Masters. Many called for the Spaniard, who claimed the Green Jacket back in 2017, to be banned from Augusta National after he damaged the tee-box on the second hole during the fourth round.

The veteran golfer was incensed with himself after a wayward drive veered into a bunker, slamming the ground with his driver before snapping it in two by thrashing a plastic drinks crate. Geoff Yang, the newly appointed chairman of the competitions committee, strode over and handed him a code of conduct warning, making Garcia the first player to ever receive one in the Masters.

After finishing 52nd in Georgia, Garcia's rage spilled over into his post-round interviews, where he stonewalled certain questions and gave curt responses to those he did address. Now, having had a couple of days to reflect on his outburst, he has taken to social media to issue a public apology.

In a statement posted on X, he wrote: "I want to apologise for my actions on Sunday at the Masters tournament. I respect and value everything that the Masters and Augusta National Golf Club is to Golf.

"I regret the way I acted and it has no place in our game. It doesn't reflect the respect and appreciation I have for the Masters, the patrons, tournament officials and golf fans around the world."

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Following the completion of his round, ESPN reporter and television presenter Mike Greenberg called on Augusta officials to permanently exclude him from the prestigious venue.

He posted on social media: "A lifetime exemption is a privilege extended by Augusta to its champions out of respect. If that respect is not reciprocated, there is no law that says a past champ cannot be banned. I'm not sure they should have Sergio Garcia back after the garbage he pulled today."

In the wake of his dismal showing, which saw him finish on eight over par, 20 shots behind eventual winner Rory McIlroy, Garcia acknowledged he was unhappy with his conduct. He did, however, fall short of offering an apology. When questioned about his heated behaviour, he said: "Just obviously not super proud of it, but sometimes it happens."

When asked if he received a warning from Yang, Garcia replied: "I'm not going to tell you," before barking back, "Next question, please" at another reporter who asked a similar question.

[Sergio Garcia speaking at the Masters]

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Garcia was also short with reporters after his round(Image: Golf.com)

Garcia's 2017 victory means he is entitled to compete in the prestigious major whenever he wishes. He was amongst the first players to sign up to the LIV Golf Tour.

Reports a the time claimed the Spaniard received a $40million signing-on fee to join the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund backed circuit. He is anticipated to take part in the forthcoming LIV event in Mexico this weekend.

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