Who knew the struggle of a prominent name like Rickie Fowler could grow as we come close to the Masters? The sponsors have neglected the golfer, as at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, he could not get a sponsor-exempt invite into the event, along with Jordan Spieth. Along with that, his performance this season has also been a great cause of worry. Until now, with his 6 participations, Fowler could only get one top-20 finish.

But despite that, the golfer feels good about the influence he has over the sport. Fowler is one of the most popular golfers and is considered a big face of the PGA Tour. This a popular view of him among other golfers, even shared by his long-time friend,  Lexi Thompson.

Fowler has been praised for doing unique stuff like wearing different colors and creating a unique identity in the sport. Recently, the duo had come together at the panel of The Scoop, by GOLF.COM, and the host Claire Rogers asked him some interesting questions along the same lines.

Michelle Wie West was recently part of this podcast, and Claire Rogers asked Rickie Fowler about a particular statement she made, “You made golf cool. Do you agree with that?” For context, Michelle Wie West had claimed that Rickie Fowler was a big inspiration for her to get into golf, and she also believes he was responsible for making the sport look cool.  Answering this, he said, how everyone (other golfers) has done their part, pointing out Thompson as well. He added, “Plenty of guys before me that helped set the stage to maybe go off in a little different area. Coming from Action Sports and you know, wearing more colors and so that was just my own little spin-off of it.” Fowler, who is known as an acclaimed golfer, was earlier a professional motocross racer. On top of that, he was one of the top BMX racers in California. With a closet full of trophies, his accident at the age of 14 turned his attention to golf. Despite the sport change, the influence can still be seen in his unique preference for colors.

Further for the fans, Fowler was asked, “Why do you think, I mean, when I’m at tournaments you still see kids head to toe in orange? Why is it you, that they are so excited about?” The video showcased a couple of pictures of how young fans of Fowler wore orange to support him. Following that, the 36-year-old answered, “The only thing that comes to mind is what people have mentioned, I think the kids, they can see through everything and I feel like they’re a great judge and character or if someone’s genuine. They can see right through if someone’s fake.” Fowler being a graduate of Oklahoma State University, continued his school color. Additionally, he believes the colors express his personality with a bold presence. And as Fowler comments, he is seen as someone among the fans, who is not afraid to be himself. Someone who is genuine. The golfer is also known for his philanthropy as he has involved himself in charitable works supporting Ernie Els’s charity golf event and the Rickie Fowler Foundation. This kind side of him does not go unnoticed in the golf community.

Similarly, Thompson has also been taking an active part with the Lexi Thompson Foundation and SEAL Legacy Foundation. Additionally, the duo has even been seen interacting with fans with each appearance on the course.

With similar qualities and a long-term friendship. They both share an incredible amount of admiration and respect for one another.

Rickie Fowler and Lexi Thompson praising each other

The duo might not remember their friendship beginning, but they do remember things about each other. Earlier the duo featured together as a team at the Grant Thornton Invitational and shared a memorable moment. Thompson for Fowler’s birthday brought “a cute little orange cake.” Every tiny detail of the golfer is being considered, be it his favorite color or his important day.

Even in the interview panel, they praised each other. Thompson is a big admirer of Fowler’s play style and she said, “I love watching his game because it looks just so free and so easy.” The effortless presence at the course is praised by the ex-LPGA pro. Fowler has garnered praise for his elegant, smooth backswing and powerful drives. Even his career achievement is the result of his playing style having 10 professional wins, including the 2015 PLAYERS Championship.

Even Fowler shared something similar about the LPGA pro, “She just wants to go get it done. Obviously, she’s won plenty of times and there are times when it doesn’t work out, and she, pardon my French, but she works her a– off. I think some of her work ethic is something I would maybe benefit from.” There isn’t any doubt about the hard work that Thompson puts in. Apart from her routine for golf, she has always been dedicated to fitness. Even after she decides to step away from the course due to mental fatigue. She has continued to actively post about her fitness journey and her new Lexi Thompson Fitness app, too.

The duo in the career has achieved the greatest. Even with the unique qualities that they pointed out, what are your thoughts on it? Do you believe the same? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.