Rickie Fowler, a prominent name on the PGA Tour, has delivered an unvarnished response after discovering he was left out of the invite list for the upcoming Arnold Palmer Invitational. Fowler, along with Jordan Spieth, are among the high-profile players whose subpar performance over the past year has had repercussions. The duo, however, still has a chance to qualify by triumphing at the ongoing Cognizant Classic in Florida, though Jake Knapp’s impressive 13-under score sets a challenging bar.
Fowler’s exclusion has raised eyebrows in some quarters, considering his close ties with Arnold Palmer and his family. But Fowler himself has taken ownership of the situation, attributing his omission to his own performance.
In a post-match press conference following his second round at the Cognizant Classic, Fowler was informed that he was not on the final list of invitees. His candid reaction was one of self-accountability. “Well, at the end of the day, play better,” Fowler confessed. He acknowledged the simplicity of the solution, stating, “It would be a lot easier just having played well last year and earned my way into these events.”
Despite the blow, Fowler expressed gratitude for having been given spots at Pebble and AT&T by Steve John, and at Torrey by Tiger and Genesis. He appeared unfazed by the setback, asserting that playing well would resolve the issue. Fowler did, however, express disappointment at missing the special event, which holds significance due to his deep-seated relationship with Mr. Palmer.
Fowler, albeit without a major victory to his name, has been a consistent presence on the PGA Tour and is a major draw in any tournament he participates in. His current absence from the Arnold Palmer Invitational underscores his form and the PGA Tour’s shift in focus beyond merely considering the big names and significant history in the game.
Interestingly, Fowler disclosed that he had declined to join LIV Golf, a decision that might haunt him if it ushers in a series of exclusions from premier tournaments. He clarified, “I’m not out there playing for a paycheque; I’m out there playing to compete with the best players in the world, and I believe the Tour is the best place to be. I’d like to see it continue to be like that.”
With the final two rounds of the Cognizant Classic in Florida looming, Fowler has his sights set on a grand finish. Ideally, a win here would secure his place at Bay Hill, rendering all else moot.
