So maybe this could be the year of the Rose
since Jose Maria Olazabal’s second victory in 1999.
A stark contrast to the time when Seve Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer, Sandy Ly l e , Ni c k Fa l d o, Ia n Woosnam and Olazabal enjoyed unrivalled success at Augusta.
However, while Willett’s form and fitness has since suffered a dramatic slump, he was succeeded as Masters champ by Garcia following his play-off victory over Justin Rose, who is one of a number of contenders to make it a European hat-trick.
■ REDEMPTION FOR ROSE?
Rose, the former US Open champion must wonder if he will ever get his hands on a green jacket after recent experiences at Augusta.
Rose’s 14- under- par total in 2015 is th e joint lowest-ever by a runner-up, while in 2017 he was denied by a combination of an inspired Garcia on the back nine on Sunday, and a costly bogey on the 71st hole of regulation.
■ CAN GARCIA DEFY THE ODDS?
Only Jack Nicklaus, Woods and Faldo have won backtoback Masters titles and the chances of Garcia doing the same would appear slim.
Before last year’s win he had managed just one top10 at Augusta in his previous 12 starts and even claimed in 2012 that he was not good enough to win a major.
Garcia should be able to play with more freedom in the big events, but his focus may well be elsewhere after the recent birth of his daughter – named Azalea after the 13th hole.