Wednesday 10 May 2017 19:25, UK
Sergio Garcia says the reaction he received from his peers for claiming a long-awaited major title was the most rewarding aspect of winning the Masters.
The Spaniard makes his return to action at the Players Championship, a month on from seeing off Justin Rose in a dramatic play-off at Augusta.
Garcia proved to be a popular champion as he celebrated major success at the 73rd attempt, with the world No 6 now full of confidence ahead of his week at TPC Sawgrass.
"There are so many great things that have happened since Sunday at Augusta," Garcia told a pre-tournament press conference. "The support from fans and supporters and everyone around the world has been amazing.
"What has meant the most is to see the reaction from the players towards me and other than a couple, how happy they all have been.
"That, to me, it shows me a lot. It shows me how much my fellow players respect me and care about me. It's something that you can't really fake, so that's awesome.
"Is it ideal to come back and be the first tournament this one? Hopefully we'll be able to say that on Sunday."
Garcia tees off for the first two rounds alongside fellow former TPC Sawgrass champions Adam Scott and Matt Kuchar, and he is relishing the chance to return to a venue where he has a strong record.
"I've been very thankful and very lucky to have so many opportunities here to win," Garcia added. "Not only the one where I did win, but some of the other ones where I have been very, very close.
"I just want to keep doing more of the same thing. I love the golf course and if I manage to play well, I should have a chance on Sunday. It would be nice to get back into those kind of emotions."
Watch the Players Championship throughout the week live on Sky Sports The Players!
