Why Rickie Fowler decided not to join LIV Golf in 2023 as PGA Tour make decision which could test his resolve

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Rickie Fowler was heavily linked with a move to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League back in 2023.

After Bryson DeChambeau joined LIV in 2022 and former Masters champ Patrick Reed also quit the PGA Tour; many believed Fowler would be the next big-name American to abandon golf’s traditional circuit.

However, the 36-year-old stayed loyal to the PGA Tour and went on to win the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit.

Yet, 2024 wasn’t kind to Fowler. The six-time Tour winner finished in the top ten once and missed six cuts. What’s more, he finished well outside the FedEx Cup top 70.

Why Rickie Fowler snubbed LIV Golf

During season two of Full Swing, Fowler revealed that his decision to remain on the PGA Tour was largely influenced by the quality of the fields and the opportunity to test himself against the best players in the world.

“I’m not out there playing for a paycheque; I’m out there playing to compete with the best players in the world, and I believe the Tour is the best place to be. I’d like to see it continue to be like that,” Fowler said.

However, after his drop in form last year, many fans would perhaps suggest Fowler made the wrong choice.

What’s more, the American will now have to play his way into the Arnold Palmer Invitational after the latest news to emerge.

• READ MORE: Jordan Spieth completes rare golfing achievement during day one of the Cognizant Classic at PGA National

PGA Tour makes Rickie Fowler decision ahead of the Arnold Palmer Invitational

Fowler won’t receive a sponsor invitation for the Bay Hill tournament and will have to earn his way into the Signature Event at the Cognizant Classic. He has been a long-time competitor at the Arnold Palmer and will no doubt be disappointed not to be given an invite.

Had Fowler opted to join LIV, he would no longer have to worry about FedEx Cup points and sponsors’ invites. Instead, he would’ve been competing against some of the best players in the world whilst also earning millions.

Of course, Fowler’s decision to remain on the PGA Tour deserves credit. Clearly, he believes in competitiveness and feels he’s capable of competing with the best players on the planet: Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler and Ludvig Aberg.

Fowler is off to a good start at the Cognizant Classic after shooting a seven-under 64 at PGA National. The American is five shots back of runaway leader Jake Knapp. The 30-year-old became the 15th player to shoot 59 on the PGA Tour and is at 12 under.