At the 3M Open in July 2025, professional golfer Rickie Fowler showed heartfelt solidarity with the PGA Tour community by wearing a black ribbon on his cap in memory of Kayla Hale, who recently passed away after battling cancer. Kayla was the wife of Cody Hale, a respected putter fitter closely connected to many players, including Fowler himself. This visible tribute reflected the deep support Fowler and the Tour members offer each other during difficult times.
Cody Hale has been a trusted figure behind the scenes on the PGA Tour, helping players fine-tune their performance, particularly with putter fittings. Fowler credits Hale for helping him regain confidence on the greens last year through a switch to an older Odyssey Versa Jailbird putter. More than just a professional connection, their relationship symbolizes the close-knit nature of the Tour family.
Kayla Hale’s passing has left Cody as a single father to two young sons, Bowden and Bennett. The loss has deeply affected the entire PGA community, highlighting that beyond the competition, the Tour operates as an extended family where personal hardships are met with collective care and support.
I’ve known Cody for a handful of years. He’s helped me quite a bit on putters when I’ve used the Oddysey products…his wife was battling cancer for a while and was in remission, and popped back up and unfortunately passed, I guess, about a week and a half ago now.
—Rickie Fowler, PGA Tour Golfer
Cody’s part of the family out here and when you’re part of the family, their family’s part of the family, too…can’t really imagine what they’re all going through, him and his boys, but to be able to at least help out and show our support, I think everyone out here does a great job of that,
Fowler added.
Community Effort Raises Significant Support for Cody Hale and His Family
Following Kayla Hale’s death, the PGA Tour community has rallied to provide both emotional and financial assistance to Cody and his sons. A GoFundMe campaign, initiated by family friend Rebekah Bean, has successfully raised over $90,000. These funds will help cover funeral expenses and allow Cody the necessary time to grieve and care for his children without the added burden of immediate financial concerns.
The collective support from players, staff, and fans reflects the strong bonds within the PGA Tour. Rallies like this emphasize that their connection extends beyond golf, underscoring shared humanity during times of loss.
I know he loves being out here with all of us. At this time, I know he wants to be home with his boys. Hopefully they can get through this.
—Rickie Fowler, PGA Tour Golfer
Rickie Fowler’s Personal Challenges Amid His Support for the Tour Family
While Fowler has been a pillar of strength for Cody Hale and his family, he is simultaneously navigating the most difficult stretch of his own professional career. Once ranked as high as World No. 4, Fowler has experienced a steep decline, currently positioned 105th worldwide. Since his win at the Rocket Mortgage Classic in 2023, titles have eluded him, and this season has produced only a single top-10 finish with several missed cuts.
This downturn has made Fowler’s career appear stalled, drawing criticism from some corners, especially on social media. Harsh remarks such as
Rickie should call it quits for this year. Go see a hand specialist and a psychiatrist!!
and
You’re tracking a dude who just isn’t a good golfer anymore,
illustrate the pressure and negativity he faces during this period. Despite this, Fowler’s continued commitment to support his fellow Tour family members reveals a character that transcends scores and rankings.
The contrast between his personal struggles and his compassionate actions highlights the importance of empathy in competitive sports. Fowler’s dedication to Cody’s family proves that being part of the Tour means standing together not only in victory but in hardship, reinforcing the values that sustain the golfing community.
What This Means for the PGA Tour and Its Members Moving Forward
The events surrounding Cody Hale’s loss and Rickie Fowler’s steadfast support demonstrate the close-knit fabric binding the PGA Tour community. Beyond the drives, putts, and trophies, the players and staff see themselves as an extended family where personal challenges are met with collective kindness and aid.
Fowler’s example serves as a reminder that the human element in sports remains vital, especially when individuals face unexpected tragedy. The outpouring of support both financially and emotionally signals that the PGA Tour’s commitment to its members is deep and enduring, fostering resilience in the face of adversity.
As Rickie Fowler works through his own career challenges, his actions showcase leadership not measured in titles but in empathy and solidarity. Moving forward, this story will likely continue to resonate within the Tour, motivating others to prioritize community and compassion alongside competitive excellence.
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 unwell, according to the PGA Tour. On Thursday, he scored 3 over par with a 74 during the first round at TPC Scottsdale. Fowler, aged 36, has won six times in his career, including the 2019 WM Phoenix Open. He also finished second in this tournament in 2010 and 2016.
Q. Did Rickie Fowler go to LIV?
A. A look back at the reasons Rickie Fowler chose not to become part of LIV Golf.
Q. Are Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy friends?
A. In Las Vegas on Sunday, Fowler led after 54 holes, while McIlroy trailed by just two shots as his nearest competitor. They’ve known each other for a long time. They often meet at big tournaments and consider each other friends.
Q. Has Rickie Fowler joined LIV Golf?
A. Fowler used to have Farmers Insurance on his hat and Rocket Mortgage on his shirt. However, he clarified that their absence is not due to any intention to join LIV Golf. He trusts the PGA Tour board completely.