
USA Today via Reuters
May 15, 2024; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Rickie Fowler walks on eighth green during a practice round for the PGA Championship golf tournament at Valhalla Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
May 15, 2024; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Rickie Fowler walks on eighth green during a practice round for the PGA Championship golf tournament at Valhalla Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
For good reason, Rickie Fowler has always been a darling among fans. Since going pro in 2009, he has been a major player in golf, distinguished for his flamboyant attire and unafraid demeanor on the course. He has won several significant tournaments throughout the years, such as the Players Championship in 2015 and, more recently, the Rocket Mortgage Classic in 2023, which ended a four-year losing streak.
However, Fowler’s abrupt withdrawal from the recent event has left fans questioning what comes next, just when it appeared that he was picking up steam again. Where and when will he return? As he makes his next action, all eyes are on him. Let’s find out!
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Where will we see Rickie Fowler next?
The withdrawal of six-time PGA Tour winner and past WM Phoenix Open champion Rickie Fowler from the tournament before the second round due to sickness took golf fans by surprise. Although he shot 3-over 74 in the first round at TPC Scottsdale, his abrupt withdrawal has raised questions. After his withdrawal, there was speculation that Fowler’s departure may have been related more to his play than to medical issues. It was noted that his first round put him four strokes off the anticipated cut line, raising questions about the actual cause of his departure. Nonetheless, official sources verified that Fowler’s health was the reason for his withdrawal. He withdrew prior to the second round due to health issues, the PGA Tour reported on social media.
But now fans are curious to know Fowler’s next appearance. The Genesis Invitational, which will be held at Torrey Pines from February 13 to 16, 2025, has Fowler’s name on the field list as recently published by the PGA Tour Communications in X (formerly Twitter). He is joining a prestigious group that includes Ludvig Åberg, Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, and others. Although supporters are thrilled about this, it’s still unclear if Fowler will participate because of his recent health issues.
Tiger Woods returns to PGA TOUR competition next week at The Genesis Invitational, which will be contested at Torrey Pines’ South Course.
Field: pic.twitter.com/BASR5xA66r
— PGA TOUR Communications (@PGATOURComms) February 7, 2025
For Fowler, The Genesis Invitational is nothing new. He tied for 55th place in 2022, and even though he wasn’t initially in the 2025 field, he was granted a sponsor exemption to compete this year. His continuous involvement at this esteemed competition indicates his commitment to maintaining his peak level of competition. Fans are eagerly awaiting developments, as Fowler’s team has not yet released any formal announcements regarding his health or future plans. Will he need more time to recuperate, or will he be prepared for Torrey Pines? There is no doubt that Fowler will have a lot of people watching him when he returns, wanting to see if he can recover even more powerfully.
What’s your perspective on:
Will Rickie Fowler's health setback fuel a stronger comeback, or is it a sign of decline?
Have an interesting take?
Although Fowler’s status is still up in the air, Tiger Woods is making his eagerly awaited comeback to competition, which is another significant plot point.
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The commitment of Tiger Woods to the Genesis Invitational
Aside from Fowler’s inclusion on this list, another noteworthy development is that golfing great Tiger Woods has declared his intention to return to professional golf at the Genesis Invitational. He hasn’t participated in a PGA Tour event since July 2024. The severe wildfires in Los Angeles have forced the tournament to be moved from its original location at Riviera Country Club to Torrey Pines. Throughout Woods’ remarkable career, Torrey Pines has a particular place. At this location, he has won eight times, including the storied U.S. Open in 2008. His choice to take part is all the more poignant given that he recently underwent back surgery and lost his mother.

via Imago
152nd Open Championship Tiger Woods USA completes Round 2 of the 152nd Open Championship, Royal Troon Golf Club, Troon, South Ayrshire, Scotland. 18/07/2024. Picture: Thos Caffrey / Golffile.ie All photo usage must carry mandatory copyright credit Golffile Thos Caffrey Troon Royal Troon Golf Club South Ayrshire Scotland Copyright: xThosxCaffreyx *EDI*
Given his legendary position and the difficulties he has endured recently, like his recuperation from a car accident in 2021, Woods’s comeback is eagerly awaited, especially in light of his mother’s demise. Woods’ mother has been his steadfast source of support. However, Woods’ loss is unparalleled. “She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter, without her none of my personal achievements would have been possible,” he revealed following the death of his mother. Nonetheless, the fans applaud and even lend support to him for his unwavering devotion to the game and to competing in the Genesis Invitational. His participation is expected to increase event awareness and motivate fans and other athletes.
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The forthcoming tournaments promise a mix of excitement and concern as the golf world navigates these unforeseen developments. With incredible comebacks and unforgettable performances anticipated, fans continue to be excited to watch how these stories develop. Who do you think is going to have a great showdown at Torrey Pines? Drop your favorites in the comment section below.
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Debate
Will Rickie Fowler's health setback fuel a stronger comeback, or is it a sign of decline?