Sergio withdraws from British Open qualifier

Sergio Garcia, at one time perched in the upper echelon of professional golf, has fallen fast to No. 73 in the world rankings. He was scheduled to participate in the Open qualifier in Texas yesterday, however he withdrew due to an infected fingernail that made it difficult to grip the club. Thus, the trials of this former golf prodigy continue.

It was just a few years ago that the golf world thought he was "back" after a runner up finish at Carnoustie in 2007. However, it appears that the rollercoaster ride isn't slowing down anytime soon. While there is still time for Sergio to reinvent his career, the clock is definitely ticking, perhaps faster than he'd like to believe.

Sergio isn't as easy to cheer for as he once was. At the beginning of his promising career, he was charismatic and joyful on the course. Now he is stern and stoic. Like many of his peers, his game has become too mechanical. He needs to go back to "playing" the game and thinking less about swing mechanics and putting gimmicks. The late Seve Ballesteros played with unwavering confidence, despite a less than perfect golf swing.

It's not too late for him, but last time I checked the clock is still ticking.