Justin Rose and Luis Figo lead the congratulations from sporting world to Masters champion Sergio Garcia
Englishman beaten in play-off showed his class as stars from the world over said well done to the Spaniard
JUSTIN ROSE led the chorus of applause in honour of newly-crowned Masters champion Sergio Garcia.
The Englishman was beaten on the first play-off hole by El Nino at Augusta last night, as he claimed his first Major at the 74th attempt.
Stars from around the world congratulated Garcia, who has suffered a number of heartbreaking losses in the past.
But he was guided by the spirit of the late Seve Ballesteros on what would have been his 60th birthday.
And even old foe Tiger Woods found time to say well done to his rival for the past 20 years.
Rose said: "Congrats Sergio Garcia. Incredible battle out there. Sport in the moment can be tough. But it's just sport.
"Hope you guys enjoyed as much as we did. Thanks for the support all week."
Tiger Woods tweeted: "Congrats Sergio Garcia. Well earned."
Rory McIlroy said: "Two unbelievable players and two great friends, but I couldn't be happier for Sergio Garcia. You deserve it all amigo!"
European Ryder Cup star Thomas Pieters said simply: "I love you."
Rickie Fowler, who was in with a chance on Sunday, posted: "Congrats Sergio Garcia! Well deserved and great playing... soak it in my man!"
Danny Willett, who missed the cut as defending champion after a shank in his second round and put the green jacket on Garcia, said: "Great battle out there between two champions, Sergio Garcia and Justin Rose. Congrats El Nino. Vamos!"
Bubba Watson, a two-time Masters winner, said: "Congrats Sergio Garcia! Amazing to watch! What are we eating next year on Tuesday night? #Champion"
Jack Nicklaus paid a glowing tribute to Garcia's clutch play down the stretch.
He said: "Sergio should be very proud of himself. He played like the champion that he is.
"I know that two of Sergio's idols have been Seve Ballesteros and Jose Maria Olazabal, and I am certain it is very meaningful to Sergio to join them as Masters champions.
Most read in sport
"It was very special that Sergio could win on what would have been Seve's 60th birthday.
"That was very appropriate and very nice for Sergio."
Former Barcelona and Real Madrid legend Luis Figo partied with Garcia after his win.
Figo posted a photo of them together with the message: "Congratulations champion. Sergio Garcia, green jacket!"
