Rickie Fowler’s stance on Masters proves he meant every word of LIV Golf rejection
Rickie Fowler’s triumphant return to the Masters after a three-year hiatus doesn’t come as a shock, given his recent snub of LIV Golf, the breakaway league. The six-time PGA Tour winner has clawed his way back up the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) after a rough patch, securing his spot at Augusta National next month.
Fowler, 35, had been absent from Augusta National for the past three years, facing a slump that dropped him to 160th in the world rankings in 2022, a far cry from his top-five status in 2016. However, a resurgence in the 2023 season, highlighted by a victory at the Rocket Mortgage Classic last July, propelled him back into contention.
Reflecting on his absence from Augusta last year, Fowler admitted, “It sucked.” However, his return to form offered him hope, knowing he’d be back in the mix for majors. Turning down LIV Golf, despite speculation linking him to the league alongside golf luminaries like Phil Mickelson and Brooks Koepka, was a clear statement of loyalty to the PGA Tour.
“I’m not out there playing for a paycheck,” Fowler emphasized during the recent release of season two of Full Swing on Netflix. “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.”
Rejecting LIV Golf meant preserving his chances at the four majors, as the breakaway circuit doesn’t offer OWGR points. This decision sets him apart from other stars like Talor Gooch, Ian Poulter, and Lee Westwood, who will miss the Masters due to their LIV commitments.
Fowler’s return to Augusta, without having to resort to mobile streaming, underscores his commitment to the traditional golfing establishment and his desire to compete at the highest level on the PGA Tour.
