India’s Sharma gets Masters invitation
PALM HARBOR, FLA. » Shubhankar Sharma can add another achievement to his rapid rise. He’s going to the Masters.
Two days after Sharma held the 54-hole lead in his first World Golf Championships appearance, the 21-year-old from India accepted a special invitation to play in the Masters next month.
He will be the fourth Indian to play the Masters, and the second to receive a special invitation. Jeev Milkha Singh, a mentor to Sharma, received one in 2008.
“Golf is a global game, and throughout our history we have extended invitations to deserving international players not otherwise qualified,” Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley said. “As his results have proven, Shubhankar Sharma is a remarkable young player.”
Sharma was at No. 462 in the world three months ago when he shot 61 in the second round and won the Joburg Open. He closed with a 62 last month to win the Malaysian Open, making him the only two-time winner on the European Tour this season.
Sharma also leads the Race to Dubai. “I am deeply honoured to be found worthy of invitation by the Masters Committee. It’s a dream come true. My gratitude,” Sharma said on Twitter.
This is the first time since 2013 the Masters has awarded a special invitation. It usually reserves such invitations to international players who, unlike PGA Tour members, do not have as much access to qualifying.
Garcia to play Zurich Classic with Cabrera Bello
AVONDALE, LA. » Defending Masters champion and world No. 11 Sergio Garcia has committed to play in the PGA’s Zurich Classic of New Orleans team event in April.
Tournament chief Steve Worthy, who made the announcement on Tuesday, says Garcia’s partner will be Zurich Classic newcomer Rafa Cabrera Bello, who is ranked 21st in the world.