Xander Schauffele’s comments speak volumes about Rickie Fowler relationship

Xander Schauffele’s Revealing Words on Rickie Fowler: A Friendship That Speaks Volumes

 

As the Zozo Championship kicks off this week, fans are set to witness a special pairing in action—Xander Schauffele and Rickie Fowler. While both golfers are fierce competitors, their close friendship offers a heartwarming story that runs parallel to the intense nature of professional golf. Schauffele’s recent comments about Fowler shed light on the deep respect and admiration he holds for his friend, adding another layer of intrigue to their joint appearance at the Zozo Championship.

 

Schauffele, a two-time major winner, did not hold back his praise when asked about Fowler in a recent press conference. “Yeah, Rick’s awesome,” Schauffele said. “He’s truly probably one of the nicest guys out here. I mean that when I say it. I couldn’t be happier for him to see him in good form.” It’s clear that their bond extends far beyond the golf course, as the 30-year-old spoke with genuine admiration for Fowler, emphasizing both his personality and his impressive return to form.

 

The pairing is fitting, given the contrasting journeys the two players have taken over the past few years. While Schauffele has steadily risen to the top of the golf world, capturing two major titles earlier this year, Fowler has faced more significant challenges. Once a consistent contender at the highest levels of the sport, Fowler’s form dipped to the point where he dropped out of the top 100 in the world rankings. At one stage, he was on the verge of losing his PGA Tour playing privileges altogether. But despite these hurdles, Fowler has remained one of the most beloved figures in the game, and his journey back to form has been nothing short of inspiring.

 

Both Schauffele and Fowler found themselves in scintillating form during the 2023 U.S. Open, combining for a historic moment that will be remembered for years to come. On the same day, both men carded rounds of 62, equaling the lowest round ever recorded in men’s major history. It was an astonishing feat—not just for its individual brilliance, but for the sheer improbability that two players would manage to achieve the same historic score on the same day.

 

Reflecting on the moment, Schauffele couldn’t have been more complimentary toward his friend. “Being in Florida [where both players live] a little bit more now, I’ve played some games with him, and he’s just a pleasure to be around,” Schauffele said. “It’s not surprising to see him shoot eight under, either. I’m happy that he’s able to get back into good form and can compete at a high level.” Schauffele’s words are a testament to Fowler’s enduring talent and the resilience he has shown in the face of adversity.

 

Fowler’s journey back to form has not been an easy one. At one point, his career seemed to be on a downward spiral. By 2022, he had qualified for just one of the four majors and finished 125th in the FedEx Cup standings, narrowly securing the final PGA Tour card. It was a stark contrast to the Fowler who had once been considered one of golf’s most exciting young talents. However, despite these struggles, Fowler has remained a fixture on the tour, earning admiration for his sportsmanship and his unwavering positivity.

 

One of Fowler’s most endearing qualities is his habit of sticking around to congratulate his fellow competitors after they finish their rounds. For years, he has been the first to offer a handshake or a pat on the back to the victor as they walk off the 18th green. But after enduring years of frustration and underwhelming results, Fowler has finally found himself on the receiving end of that applause once again. After several seasons of watching others lift trophies, Fowler now finds himself in a position to contend—and potentially win—once more.

 

The turning point came during the 2023 season, where Fowler’s performances in the FedEx Fall Series suggested that his game was back on track. A tie for 16th and a tie for 23rd in two recent tournaments have given Fowler a much-needed confidence boost, which he believes has “knocked the rust off” his game. Now, he returns to Japan, a country with deep personal significance for him due to his maternal grandfather, to compete in the Zozo Championship—a tournament where he finished as runner-up just two years ago.

 

The Zozo Championship holds special meaning for Fowler, but it is also a key moment for Schauffele, who will be looking to cap off an incredible year with another victory. As one of the favorites in the field, along with defending champion Collin Morikawa, Schauffele will be aiming to continue his remarkable run of form. Currently ranked World No. 2, Schauffele has been relentless in his pursuit of the No. 1 spot held by Scottie Scheffler. However, when asked what it would take to overtake Scheffler as the top player in the world, Schauffele offered a humble response: “I mean, it seems I need to have the best career ever… I just had my best career ever and wasn’t really close.”

 

Despite this, Schauffele remains content with his performances and optimistic about his future. “I’m pretty content with how I played and where my game is at. If I can keep on doing what I’m doing, I’d be very pleased,” he added.

 

As the Zozo Championship unfolds, all eyes will be on Schauffele and Fowler—not just because of their skills on the golf course, but because of the friendship and camaraderie that defines their relationship. Schauffele’s glowing words about Fowler remind us that, at its heart, golf is not just about winning trophies and setting records. It’s also about the bonds forged between players who share the same struggles, triumphs, and dreams.

 

For Rickie Fowler, the road back to the top has been long and arduous. But with friends like Xander Schauffele in his corner, it’s clear that Fowler’s return to form is being celebrated as much for his character as for his golfing prowess. As they prepare to tee off together in Japan, fans can only hope that their shared success on the course is a reflection of the strength of their friendship—one that continues to inspire both players and fans alike.