Rickie Fowler says what he thinks of Gary Woodland after playing in the same group as him on day one at the Truist Championship

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Rickie Fowler returned to form when playing alongside Gary Woodland at the Truist Championship on Thursday.

Fowler posted an opening round seven-under-par 63 at the Truist Championship, whilst Woodland carded a solid two-under-par 68.

The 36-year-old American has been in the golfing wilderness for some time now.

Sure, he won the Rocket Mortgage Classic in 2023 but that was more of a one-off rather than the norm over the past six years.

When speaking to reporters, Fowler said the course at the Truist Championship was ‘gettable’ on day one.

Perhaps playing alongside his good friend Woodland helped get the best out of Fowler on Thursday.

After all, Fowler’s poor recent form pales in comparison to the health struggles that Woodland has gone through.

Rickie Fowler makes Gary Woodland claim after day one at the Truist Championship

Woodland, 40, had a benign brain tumour removed in September 2023.

Going through that period would have been a huge strain on the 2019 US Open champion, and his family of course.

However, he’s slowly getting back to his old self now after undergoing successful surgery just over 18 months ago.

He finished in a tie for second at the Texas Children’s Houston Open at the end of March, and hopefully there are much better things lying in wait for him.

And Fowler responded when asked what it was like playing with Woodland on day one of the Truist Championship.

The 36-year-old said, “I enjoy playing with everyone out here, especially guys I haven’t been around much or new guys on Tour, getting to know them.

“Gary is one of my better friends out here. We play a decent amount at home. He lives about 45 minutes south of us. I’ve gotten to know Andrew a little bit, great player. He’s obviously had a solid year this year, which has been fun to watch.

“Yeah, Gary and I always have a good time together, whether it’s at home, playing, practicing, or out here on Tour.“

Woodland back playing is a miracle, anything else a bonus

The one-time major champion must be absolutely loving life back out on the golf course.

And he will undoubtedly have a newfound appreciation for life now.

Woodland is an incredibly talented golfer, and he will no doubt contend to win again this season.

It must have been wonderful for him to play alongside his good friend Fowler during the opening round of the Truist Championship at the Philadelphia Cricket Club on Thursday.

And it will be fascinating to see if they manage to drive each other on during day two of the Signature Event on Friday.