BLAINE, Minn. — As the PGA TOUR season draws to a close, the pressure intensifies for players fighting to secure their place in the FedExCup Playoffs, and Rickie Fowler is no stranger to this challenge. Entering the 3M Open with the imperative to improve his standing, Fowler aims to regain his stride and build Rickie Fowler 3M Open momentum after a fluctuating season that has left his position uncertain.
Two years ago, Fowler was riding a wave of success after a breakthrough victory at the Rocket Classic in Detroit, finishing 16th in the FedExCup standings and returning to the coveted East Lake event for the first time since 2019. This marked a hopeful return to form after years of doubt, proving he could deliver under pressure. However, last year’s campaign was a sharp contrast as he slipped into mediocrity, ending 108th in the FedExCup, missing the Playoffs, and risking his status on the PGA TOUR.
Mid-Season Progress and a Bogey-Free Start at TPC Twin Cities
This season has positioned Fowler somewhere between those highs and lows, sitting 63rd in the FedExCup rankings—a precarious spot offering some security but far from his previous ambitions. Returning to the 3M Open for the third time and his first start at this event since 2022, Fowler opened with an impressive, bogey-free 6-under 65 at TPC Twin Cities. Despite finishing five strokes behind leader Adam Svensson, who set a course record with an 11-under 60, Fowler’s performance demonstrated his capability to contend.
In recent weeks, Fowler has shown glimpses of consistent play, finishing tied for 14th at the Open Championship, 18th at the John Deere Classic, and seventh at the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday. These results suggest a gradual rebuilding of form and confidence.
At the end of the day, good golf solves a lot of things,
Fowler said after his opening round, balancing realism with hope.
Luckily I’ve been starting to play a little bit better these last few months and had some decent finishes. … Ultimately, I think my initial goal is to make it to BMW and be inside the top 50, but we’ll take it day by day for now.
—Rickie Fowler
Personal Loss Adds Emotional Weight to Fowler’s Season
Beyond the usual competitive pressures, Fowler carried a deeper emotional burden this week. On Thursday, he wore a black ribbon pinned to his hat, inscribed with the initials KH, honoring Kayla Hale, who recently passed away from cancer. Kayla was the wife of Cody Hale, Fowler’s longtime putter fitter and a key influence behind many of his Odyssey putters.
I’ve known Cody for a handful of years,
Fowler reflected.
He’s helped me quite a bit on putters. … Cody’s part of the family out here, and when you’re part of the family, their family is part of the family, too. You can’t really imagine what they’re going through, him and his boys.
—Rickie Fowler
This tribute underscores how intertwined personal relationships and professional pursuits can be in golf, illustrating Fowler’s sense of solidarity amid adversity. His journey at the 3M Open extends beyond a pursuit of points; it is a process marked by resilience and meaningful connection.
Continuing the Pursuit of a FedExCup Playoffs Return
With only two weeks remaining in the Regular Season, Fowler’s effort at the 3M Open serves as a critical stepping stone to secure his position for the BMW Championship and deeper Playoffs contention. His fluctuating season and complex emotions shape a narrative of a player navigating uncertainty while striving to reclaim his competitive form.
Rickie Fowler’s experience—from soaring highs to challenging lows—equips him with a perspective sharpened by both hardship and success. The 3M Open represents a moment not only of momentum but of meaning, as he continues to piece together his season and career outlook amid the pressures of elite golf.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Rickie Fowler quit?
A. Rickie Fowler pulled out of the WM Phoenix Open before the second round on Friday because he was sick, according to the PGA Tour. On Thursday, he had scored 3-over 74 in the first round at TPC Scottsdale. Fowler, age 36, has won six times in his career, including this event in 2019. He also finished second in 2010 and 2016.
Q. Did Rickie Fowler go to LIV?
A. Looking back at why Rickie Fowler decided not to become part of LIV Golf.
Q. Are Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy friends?
A. On Sunday in Vegas, Fowler led after 54 holes, with McIlroy just two shots behind. They’ve been acquainted for a long time. They often meet at top tournaments and other events because they are friends.
Q. Has Rickie Fowler joined LIV Golf?
A. Fowler used to have Farmers Insurance on his hat and Rocket Mortgage on his shirt. He clarified that their absence doesn’t mean he’s joining LIV Golf. He trusts the PGA Tour board completely.