Rickie Fowler had a message for those criticizing his invitation to the PGA Championship — keep talking. The 36-year-old golfer turned that criticism into motivation and delivered a sizzling performance at the Truist Championship.
Rickie Fowler Turns Doubt Into Fuel
Rickie Fowler admitted he heard the negative reactions from fans when the PGA Championship revealed its field, and his name was on the list. Despite dropping to No. 125 in the world and missing the Masters, Fowler stayed focused.
“The negative stuff, I would say, kind of helps me in a way because it fuels me to kind of go out and prove people wrong,” said Fowler.
Solid Round at the Truist Championship
At the Philadelphia Cricket Club, Fowler shot an impressive 7-under-63, which included eight birdies and a single bogey. His strong round put him just two shots behind leader Keith Mitchell.
“I’ve been happy with where my game’s been at for quite a while. I just haven’t really seen the product of the work,” he said. “This was a little better day.”
PGA Championship Invite Sparks Controversy
Rickie Fowler’s invitation to next week’s PGA Championship at Quail Hollow sparked debate, especially since he’s currently outside the top 100 in the world — a typical cutoff for recent Ryder Cup players. Still, Fowler is no stranger to Quail Hollow, where he claimed his first PGA Tour win in 2012.
His best PGA Championship finish came in 2014 when he tied for third. And while his current ranking may raise eyebrows, Fowler was ranked 146th when he was invited in 2022.
Appreciation for Sponsor Exemptions
Rickie Fowler expressed gratitude for the exemptions he’s received this year. Though not the ideal way to enter events, he’s thankful for the support.
“A number of exemptions this year, which I’m very, very happy for and appreciate it,” he said. “You want to come out and play well. So off to a good start and looking forward to keeping it rolling.”
Putting and Course Strategy Pay Off
Rickie Fowler’s putting was key to his strong round. He sank a 13-foot birdie putt on the 7th and capped the round with another birdie on the 18th.
“My body’s feeling better, kind of allowing me to go play golf,” Fowler said. He also made a small equipment change, adjusting his irons to improve ball flight — a tweak that clearly paid off.
Fowler’s History of Proving Critics Wrong
Back in 2015, a Sports Illustrated poll labeled him as one of the most overrated players. Fowler responded by winning The Players Championship that same week.
“That worked out all right that week,” he recalled.
Final Thoughts: Fowler Still Deserves Attention in 2025
Fowler may not have a recent win since the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic, but he’s far from finished. His strong play at the Truist Championship proves he still has the tools to compete at the highest level.
Here are 5 reasons :
- He uses criticism as motivation.
- He just shot a 7-under-63, showing he can still perform.
- He has a strong track record at big events like Quail Hollow.
- He’s actively improving his game, like adjusting iron setups.
- He’s proven he can bounce back — just like in 2015.
