Sergio Garcia is yet to speak to Tiger Woods after making an inappropriate remark about the world No. 1-ranked golfer, though he would certainly take an opportunity to open some direct dialogue at the US Open if he gets a chance next month.
Garcia sparked controversy this week by saying he would serve fried chicken if they were to have dinner together at the US Open. That kind of stereotype has been used for at least a century to denigrate African-Americans.
Along with making a public apology for the remark, Garcia on Thursday said he had made contact with Mark Steinberg, who handles Woods’ business affairs.
Asked at the BMW PGA Championship if he had spoken to Woods, Garcia said: “Unfortunately not, though I have spoken to Mark Steinberg and he said that they are moving forward. And if I manage to talk to Tiger then I will do that definitely when I see him at the US Open.”
The Spanish golfer said he didn’t sense any animosity from the crowd during his opening round.
“It was okay out there today and it’s been a tough week, but for the most part it’s been okay,” he said. “And I felt the warmth of the people and they were very supportive of myself and my playing colleagues.
“That really helped a lot and, like I have always said, I am very, very fortunate because I feel like the people support me everywhere I go, and not just in Europe. So I am very thankful for that and to get a welcome like I did.”