Renowned golfer Rickie Fowler had been at the center of speculation about his potential move to the Saudi-supported LIV Golf League in 2023. With golfing stars Bryson DeChambeau and former Masters winner Patrick Reed renouncing the PGA Tour for LIV, many predicted Fowler would be the next high-profile American to follow suit.
However, in a surprising turn of events, the 36-year-old golf star held his ground, remaining loyal to the traditional golfing avenue – the PGA Tour. His decision paid off when he emerged as the winner of the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit.
Despite his success, the year 2024 proved challenging for Fowler. The golfer, who boasts six Tour wins, only made it into the top ten once and missed six cuts. Moreover, his performance left him well below the top 70 in the FedEx Cup standings.
The rationale behind Fowler’s decision to stick with the PGA Tour surfaced during the second season of Full Swing. Fowler clarified that his choice was influenced primarily by the caliber of the contestants and the unique opportunity to challenge the world’s best players.
In his words, “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.”
Nonetheless, following his performance dip in the past year, critics and fans alike have questioned Fowler’s choice. Adding salt to the wound, the recent news revealed that Fowler will need to compete for a spot in the Arnold Palmer Invitational, a change that is bound to test his resolve.
The PGA Tour has decided not to extend a sponsor invitation to Fowler for the Bay Hill tournament. This means Fowler will need to secure his position in the Signature Event at the Cognizant Classic by his performance alone. Considering his long-standing participation in the Arnold Palmer, it’s likely this news has come as a disappointment.
Had Fowler chosen to join the LIV Golf League, he would have been relieved from the pressure of FedEx Cup points and sponsors’ invites. Instead, he would have been competing against the world’s best golfers while also raking in millions.
It’s important to commend Fowler’s decision to stay with the PGA Tour, a choice that speaks volumes about his competitive spirit and belief in his ability to rival the top golfing talents, including Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, and Ludvig Aberg.
As the Cognizant Classic gets underway, Fowler seems to have hit the ground running with a seven-under 64 at PGA National. However, he trails behind leader Jake Knapp by five shots. The 30-year-old golfer made headlines by becoming the 15th player to shoot 59 on the PGA Tour, currently leading with 12 under.
