Rickie Fowler firmly responds to LIV rejection and subtly jabs at competitors with his straightforward answer.
Although Rickie Fowler’s name was strongly associated with joining the LIV Golf venture, he ultimately chose to remain committed to the PGA Tour and elaborated on his choice during an appearance on Full Swing.
Rickie Fowler spoke candidly about his decision to turn down LIV Golf in season two of Netflix’s Full Swing, explaining the rationale behind it without reservation.
This week, the second season of the behind-the-scenes documentary series premiered. Episode two heavily featured Fowler as he vied for his first major title at the 2023 U.S. Open. During his segment, Fowler also talked about his connections to LIV.
On several occasions, Fowler’s name has been associated with the Saudi-backed league, particularly after Jon Rahm opted for a high-paying deal in December.
Despite having the opportunity to earn more money elsewhere, Fowler chose to stick with the Tour because he valued playing against elite players over financial gain. When asked about his decision not to join LIV, a six-time PGA Tour champion and star player for team Netflix stated that it was not in his best interest.
My motivation for playing is not solely financial; I strive to compete against the finest athletes on a global level, which is why I believe that being part of the Tour is paramount. My hope would be for this ideal state to endure as it has in recent times. Fowler’s previous comments indicate he may consider joining Greg Norman and others in departing from current arrangements at some point.
Earlier this year, Fowler spoke about the links and attributed his decision to stay put to efforts by individuals such as Patrick Cantlay, Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth. He acknowledged their significant contributions in promoting growth of the Tour saying “They are investing a lot of time and making great efforts,” as reported on Golfweek.
Although I was a member of the PAC last year, I have intentionally kept my distance because I have faith in the current group’s capabilities. Jordan, Cantlay, Tiger and others are part of this trustworthy team so my plan is to continue being involved without interfering with their work towards reaching our collective goal. There are no plans for me to exit at any point.”
Unlike his fellow star Rory McIlroy, Fowler has refrained from openly criticizing the LIV setup despite his allegiance to Tour. On the other hand, four-time major winner McIlroy positioned himself as a spokesperson for PGA Tour and constantly opposed the launch of breakaway league – LIV.
McIlroy has adjusted his position on LIV Golf in the past few months. He even suggested at Pebble Beach Pro-Am that players who left for the new league should be allowed back to Tour without consequences, but Fowler disagrees with this view. “I have a different perspective than Rory,” said Fowler last month.
It’s possible that we began from a similar place, yet it seems like he has experienced some ups and downs. Regarding his choice to leave and now return, I don’t believe it was a straightforward path back to the Tour. Various decisions were made which resulted in this outcome; however big or small those choices may be is not my decision to make.
