Sergio Garcia and Tiger Woods have shaken hands on the driving range during preparations for this week’s US Open in a sign that they are keen to move on from the furore caused by the Spaniard’s “fried chicken” jibe towards the world No1.
Garcia headed to the tournament at Merion intending to apologise to Woods for the comment made at a European Tour gala dinner last month. The pair are known to dislike each other, with Garcia’s remark, when questioned on stage at the dinner, widely interpreted as racist and earning him fierce rebukes from, among others, his main sponsor, TaylorMade-Adidas. The affair firmly overshadowed the PGA Championship at Wentworth.
Woods described the comment at the time as “hurtful” and “clearly inappropriate” but Monday’s handshake indicates a desire to move on. The gesture was instigated when Garcia approached the American and offered his hand before practice.
Woods refused to comment when questioned by reporters, although both are set to face the media on Tuesday.
Garcia, who was accompanied by police during his practice round, may still face a hostile reception from the US Open crowds, with Colin “Monty” Montgomerie saying the 33-year-old could be booed.
{{/usCountry}}Garcia, who was accompanied by police during his practice round, may still face a hostile reception from the US Open crowds, with Colin “Monty” Montgomerie saying the 33-year-old could be booed.
{{/usCountry}}Montgomerie, who had Garcia as a non-playing member of his Ryder Cup team at Celtic Manor in 2010, believes severe treatment could be in store from a boisterous Pennsylvania crowd.
When asked if Garcia would be subjected to booing, Montgom-erie said: “Yes, he could do, which is very sad for our game.” The Guardian