Rickie Fowler on Phil Mickelson: "I know how much I got under his skin!"
PGA Tour pro Rickie Fowler reveals his fond memories of the Match Play, including his stunning victory over Phil Mickelson.
Rickie Fowler arrives at the WGC Match Play with one thing on his mind: the 2023 Masters.
According to the ever reliable stats guru Nosferatu, Fowler, 34, needs a quarter final finish in Austin to be confident of securing a spot at Augusta.
If he fails, he'll turn his attention to the Valero Texas Open in a bid to get enough points to make his return. He didn't qualify for the 86th Masters.
Fowler met the media on Tuesday where he spoke of his renewed optimism for his career.
Last year, Fowler returned to work with renowned coach Butch Harmon and switched caddies.
Harmon reckons he'll win this year.
Fowler, who is currently the World No. 59, was asked whether his apparent return to form has happened faster than he anticipated.
He said:
"They have run their course"
It has not been confirmed, but it appears this will be the last ever WGC.
PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan previously outlined how he would 'never' say anything had run its course.
But he wants the tour to focus on their elevated events in 2024. Those limited-field, no-cut events will also be for PGA Tour members only.
In other words, LIV Golf players won't be allowed.
Fowler disagrees about the WGCs.
He said:
"I know how much it got under his skin..."
Fowler has fond memories of this event.
As a 22-year-old wearing a cap far, far too big for his head and a bright pink shirt, he smashed Phil Mickelson 6&5 at the Match Play in 2011.
Mickelson stated that Fowler was going to do 'big things for American' golf after he was defeated.
For full context, here is the exchange Fowler had with a reporter about that win:
Q. And then as it relates to this tournament, what would be your single fondest memory of match play at this event?
Q. Elaborate, please.
Q. Any words that stand out? With Phil there's got to be something.
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