Rickie Fowler, once rumored to be joining Greg Norman’s LIV Golf, has reaffirmed his commitment to the PGA Tour.
Despite a challenging period in his career, Fowler, who had not won a PGA Tour event in four-and-a-half years, made a remarkable comeback last July at the Rocket Mortgage Classic. He triumphed over Collin Morikawa and Adam Hadwin in a thrilling playoff, securing his first victory since 2018.
Amid his struggles, Fowler was a prime target for LIV Golf, which had successfully recruited several high-profile players, including Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, and Brooks Koepka.
However, Fowler chose to stay with the PGA Tour, stating that joining LIV Golf “wasn’t the best choice for me.” His decision highlighted his loyalty to the PGA Tour and his belief in its status as the premier golf competition.
In an appearance on Netflix’s “Full Swing,” Fowler elaborated on his decision, emphasizing his desire to compete with the world’s best players rather than simply playing for a paycheck. He reiterated his commitment to the PGA Tour, stating:
“I’m not out there playing for a paycheck, 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.”
Since his victory at the Rocket Mortgage Classic, Fowler has faced challenges in regaining his top form. This season, he has yet to contend seriously, though he showed signs of improvement with a top-20 finish at the Travelers Championship last week.
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Fowler is optimistic about his prospects at this week’s Rocket Mortgage Classic, expressing his hope to build on his recent progress.
Fowler’s stance on LIV Golf extends beyond his personal choice. He has publicly disagreed with Rory McIlroy’s view that defectors to LIV should be welcomed back without consequences. Fowler believes that while understanding the allure of LIV Golf, the PGA Tour remains the ultimate platform for top-level competition. He credits the efforts of players like Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth for maintaining the Tour’s prestige and is determined to see it remain the best place to play.
Fowler’s commitment to the PGA Tour, despite the lucrative offers from LIV Golf, underscores his dedication to the sport’s integrity and his desire to compete at the highest level. His journey back to form continues, with hopes of another successful run at the Rocket Mortgage Classic.
