So remember how Rickie Fowler paid tribute to Michelle Wie West as she prepared to retire from professional golf? Fowler’s heartfelt message left Wie West emotional, showcasing their long-standing friendship. He praised her achievements and impact on golf, acknowledging the void she’ll leave on the competitive scene. “Obviously, we will miss you out playing, but we know you’re doing amazing things and have an amazing family. Miss you and hope to see you soon”, he said. With his kind words, Fowler joined numerous golfers, including Justin Thomas and Rose Zhang, in honoring Wie West’s remarkable legacy.

After Rickie Fowler’s emotional tribute, Michelle Wie West paid him back in a heartwarming way. The 10-year anniversary of her U.S. Women’s Open win was approaching, and she reflected on their shared experience at Pinehurst. “What was cool about Pinehurst is it was back-to-back,” she said, “the men played first, and we played second – that’s never happened before”, she said.  Wie West recalled asking Fowler for his yardage book after the tournament, seeking insight into his strategy. “I just wanted to see his notes, like a cheat guide,” she admitted. Fowler’s detailed notes exceeded her expectations, covering bunker placements, pin positions, and breaks on specific holes.

“He took so many notes… like, this bunker you shouldn’t be here for this pin,” Wie West shared. “He wrote down every single break on most of the holes, and our pin positions were very similar.” Wie West cherished the yardage book, especially since Fowler had recorded the break for her birdie putt on the 17th hole – the same putt he had faced earlier. “Oh my God, yeah, that’s so cool!” she exclaimed.

After signing the book at Fowler’s request, Wie West returned it to him. Their exchange showcased the mutual respect and friendship between the two golf legends. Many believe that it was the yardage book that helped Wie West win the competition.

How did Rickie Fowler’s yardage book help Michelle Wie West in her historic win?

Michelle Wie West, the women’s golf icon and 2014 U.S. Women’s Open winner, recently sat down with Claire Rogers on “The Scoop” to reflect on her remarkable career. The interview was a full-circle moment for Rogers, who first became a fan of Wie West after attending the 2006 U.S. Women’s Open at Newport Country Club.

Wie West shared that Rickie Fowler’s yardage book played a crucial role in her 2014 U.S. Women’s Open victory at Pinehurst. Fowler’s detailed notes, including bunker placements and breaks, served as a valuable “cheat guide” for Wie West. Notably, his book revealed the same break for her birdie putt on the 17th hole, which she successfully made. After signing the book, Wie West returned it to Fowler, highlighting their enduring friendship and mutual respect.