SERGIO GARCIA is still too anxious to eat while he's sweating on a Ryder Cup wildcard - even though he has made ten appearances for Europe with a record 25-and a half points.

Garcia said he was nervous waiting for Padraig Harrington, who would call him to confirm that he was still on the team. This despite the fact that he was widely considered a sure pick for captain's selection.

Even the Spanish star began to question whether he was correct to skip the final qualifying event at Wentworth, the BMW PGA Championship.

After competing in the Tour Championship one week prior, he had already decided that it would be more harmful than beneficial to fly over. However, he began to question his decision while waiting with Angela at their Texas home.

Garcia, 41, said: "I don't lie, I spend a lot time worrying about whether or not the wild card will happen.

"I had a few conversations with Padraig, Luke Donald and his assistant, and they told me that you look great for a pick.

"But when it came to the final moments, it was about Angela and me fixing to have lunch -- and I was too afraid to eat.

"I was constantly looking at the clock, at the phone, and wondering when the call would come.

"I was a bit worried, as you cannot take anything for granted. You also know that anything can happen in the weeks and days leading up to the final decision.

"The beauty of qualifying on your own is you don't need to go through that. Although it was worse before Paris, there was much speculation that I wouldn’t get a pick.

"But it's even better when you get that call."

After being pushed out by Bernd Wiesberger, Garcia felt more stressed when he realized that Shane Lowry, 2019 Open champion, would also require a wildcard.

He said: "I think Padraig, his vice captains, had a good understanding of what they wanted for quite some time."

"But, like I said. Things can change. As you saw with the automatic spots, Shane being knocked outby Bernd and then having to pick up a pick.

"Justin Rose played well and was an important part of the conversation. Alex Noren, who has been playing great golf in the last month, decided to throw his hat into the ring.

"And probably Henrik Stenson, too, because he was in good form at the right moment. It was uncertain. It all worked out, however.

Garcia performed well in Atlanta. Because of the handicap system, Garcia was only denied a second consecutive top ten finish at the play-offs. He started ten shots behind eventual winner Patrick Cantlay and gave shots to four of his competitors.

It was nevertheless encouraging to see that the 2017 Masters champion had many birdies.

He said, "I don’t know if it’s the best I’ve played in build-up. But it’s definitely up there.

"2008 was my best year, and I think that was the best. Unfortunately, I was sick the week before and that really drained my energy going into the Ryder Cup. I didn't have enough energy to do what I wanted.

"And to be completely honest, that's the reason I decided to gamble not playing at Wentworth. At 41, I felt like I was getting older - Padraig graciously pointed out that I am not getting any younger. I did not want to travel as much and have to play for four weeks consecutively.

"I would prefer to take the chance that my name would be selected and go to the Ryder Cup fully charged and ready to do the things I know I can. I am not only for myself, but also for the team.

"I have always believed it. That team room is my favorite. It's amazing how much I enjoy being a part this team room, to laugh with the guys, get to know new boys, and to hold the hands of some rookies (and even non-rookies).

No matter how many times we've been through it, we all need a lift from time to time. Anyone who needs a hug will be given one.

"That includes me because other players will openly talk to me and maybe give you a punch on the shoulder to let you know that it's okay - we're all in this together.

"Those things are so important. This is why I love the Ryder Cup so deeply. It's a great thrill to play in another Ryder Cup.