What Happened to Rickie Fowler? From World No. 1 Contender to Outside the Top 120
Rickie Fowler, once the World No. 1 contender and a fan favorite, now finds himself ranked 128th in the Official World Golf Ranking. Just two years ago, he seemed to be reclaiming his form with a win at the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic. But 2025 has been anything but promising. Fowler has fallen off the pace, missing cuts and failing to land a single top-10 finish this season. Despite these setbacks, sponsor exemptions continue to land in his lap—though for how much longer remains uncertain.
<strong>The Decline in Performance</strong>
Fowler’s performance issues aren’t subtle. His iron play has become inconsistent, his scrambling ability has dropped, and even his putting—once one of his biggest strengths—now ranks below average. According to a Golf Channel analyst, Fowler’s major issue this season is an inability to string together four solid rounds. “He can put together one decent round, maybe two. But sustaining it across four? That version of Rickie just hasn’t shown up this season.”
<strong>The PGA Championship Exemption Controversy</strong>
This year, Fowler received a rare special exemption into the PGA Championship—a privilege the tournament hadn’t granted in years. Many fans and insiders questioned the decision, given Fowler’s recent performances. He started the tournament with a solid first round, tying for 16th, only to stumble in Round 2 with a 73 (+2), once again failing to keep momentum.
<strong>Criticism Mounts, But Exemptions Keep Coming</strong>
Fowler’s continued access to high-profile tournaments via sponsor exemptions is raising eyebrows. The Memorial Tournament is now the fifth event this season where he’s gained entry this way. During the Truist Championship, Fowler addressed the criticism: “A number of exemptions this year, which I’m very, very happy for and appreciate from the sponsors and the tournament directors.” He remains confident that he’s earned them, but fans are beginning to question whether that’s still true.
<strong>A Reminder of His Past Glory</strong>
Fowler’s story at the Memorial Tournament brings back memories of 2015, when he silenced his doubters by winning the event after receiving a sponsor exemption. That was when he was still in his prime. Fast-forward to today, and the stakes are different. Now, it’s not just about silencing critics—it’s about proving he still belongs.
<strong>Redemption or Repetition?</strong>
As the Memorial Tournament approaches, the question looms large: Can Rickie Fowler find that spark again, as he did a decade ago? Or has the game moved past him? With each exemption, the pressure builds—not just to play, but to prove that he still deserves the spotlight.
The spotlight remains fixed on Rickie, but the expectations are no longer what they once were. This might be his last real shot at redemption before the invitations stop coming.