Fowler given unusual honour at PGA Tour event

Rickie Fowler, a 35-year-old golfer whose recent struggles have been well-documented, completed a remarkable return to victory at the Rocket Mortgage Classic last year. Fowler is heading back to Michigan this week to defend his title, and he has been given a unique honor in celebration of his 2023 triumph: a sandwich named after him at the Detroit Golf Club’s concession stands.

The “Rick’s Pick Sandwich” features a brioche bun filled with Cajun turkey, shredded lettuce, pickles, pepperoncinis, mayo, vinegar, oil, and oregano. Fowler enjoyed his creation during a pre-tournament press conference on Tuesday, and it’s sure to attract fans eager to try the specialty sandwich.

Fowler, a former world number four, aims to defend his Rocket Mortgage Classic title and reignite his season on the course. He has fond memories of winning the Scottish Open at Gullane in 2015 and is set to return to Scotland for the 2024 Open at Royal Troon on July 18. Despite struggling in majors this season, Fowler hopes for a strong performance in Detroit to regain his form.

Reflecting on last year’s victory, Fowler said, “It was a nice week and a big relief after the few years leading up to it. I’m looking forward to being back and picking up where we left off last year. I haven’t played quite that well since then, so it would be nice to get things going again this week.”

Fowler appreciates the classic design of the Detroit Golf Club, saying, “I feel like it’s a fairly simple, old-school golf course. If you can just get to the green, it becomes a matter of who can make more putts throughout the week. We don’t get to play many old-school courses like this, so it’s a treat for a lot of guys who appreciate that style.”

He added, “It’s a fun course to play, especially with good memories from last year. Hopefully, we can reignite some of that magic and move past what has been a slow year so far. I started to score a little better last week, which is the name of the game, and I putted well. That progress builds momentum and confidence heading into this week.”

With the support of fans and the taste of his special sandwich, Rickie Fowler is ready to make his mark once again at the Rocket Mortgage Classic.