Rickie Fowler Rejects LIV GOLF
After a three-year hiatus, Rickie Fowler is set to make a triumphant return to the Masters next month, marking a significant turnaround in his career trajectory. The six-time PGA Tour winner had endured a challenging period, plummeting to 160th in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) in 2022, a far cry from his previous top-five…
After a three-year hiatus, Rickie Fowler is set to make a triumphant return to the Masters next month, marking a significant turnaround in his career trajectory. The six-time PGA Tour winner had endured a challenging period, plummeting to 160th in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) in 2022, a far cry from his previous top-five standing in 2016.
However, Fowler’s fortunes shifted in the 2023 season, as he reclaimed his form and secured his first PGA Tour victory in over four years at the Rocket Mortgage Classic last July. This resurgence propelled him back up the rankings, ultimately earning him a coveted spot at Augusta National, a tournament he had sorely missed.
Reflecting on his absence from Augusta in previous years, Fowler candidly expressed his disappointment, stating, “I mean, honestly, it sucked.” Yet, his determination to reclaim his position among the world’s elite golfers fueled his comeback, providing him with renewed motivation and focus.
Unlike his past experiences, Fowler will now have the opportunity to compete at the Masters without relying on mobile streams, underscoring the significance of his return. Despite rumored interest from LIV Golf and the potential allure of joining a breakaway league, Fowler remained steadfast in his commitment to the PGA Tour.
Addressing speculation surrounding his future, Fowler emphasized his loyalty to the Tour during the recent release of season two of Full Swing, stating, “[Joining LIV] wasn’t the best choice for me.” He reiterated his passion for competing against the best players in the world and expressed his belief in the PGA Tour as the premier platform for elite competition.
Declining a move to LIV Golf was not merely a financial decision for Fowler but a reaffirmation of his dedication to the sport and his desire to uphold its traditions. Unlike some of his peers who opted for the breakaway circuit, Fowler prioritized the opportunity to earn OWGR points and compete in prestigious events such as the Masters.
While the allure of LIV Golf may have enticed others, Fowler’s unwavering stance highlights his unwavering commitment to his craft and his belief in the enduring value of the PGA Tour. As he prepares to tee off at Augusta National once again, Fowler’s resurgence serves as a testament to his resilience and determination to reclaim his place among golf’s elite.