Rickie Fowler Fancies Joining U.S. Ryder Cup Team in Crucial Non-Playing Role

Rickie Fowler has a huge task ahead of him to make it to the U.S. Team on merit for Ryder Cup 2021. He currently ranks 41st in the point standings, and only the top six qualify automatically. However, Team U.S. skipper Steve Stricker has six captain picks. But looking at Rickie’s current form, it doesn’t look like he would be one of those picks.

But Rickie Fowler said that he would like to serve as a vice-captain at Whistling Straits in Wisconsin for Ryder Cup starting September 24. So, can Fowler be part of the U.S. Ryder Cup team in September?

“Being a part of those weeks is very special,” says Rickie Fowler

“With the position, I’m in age-wise, and yeah, I’d have to play my (rear) off the next few weeks to have a chance there, which, as you said, it’s not out of the question. But yeah, if the team – if the guys wanted me there, I’d be there in a heartbeat,” Fowler said.

“They’re such fun weeks to be a part of whether you’re playing or not. Some of my favorite times have been when I’ve sat out and basically got to be there as, you know, a makeshift assistant captain in a way. You’re out there supporting the crew and being around,” he added.

However, Steve Stricker has already named Davis Love III, Zach Johnson, and Jim Furyk as vice-captains. Moreover, he has also said that he is interested in having Tiger Woods, who is still recovering from his injuries sustained in a car crash in February.

Meanwhile, Rickie Fowler has played four Ryder Cups, including the victorious side in 2016. That year, Bubba Watson was drafted into the side at the last moment as a vice-captain in that event. And Sergio Garcia served team Europe in a similar role in 2010 during a dip in his form. Moreover, Fowler has also represented Team USA in three winning Presidents Cup squads.

Furthermore, Fowler added, “It’s a lot more fun playing, but just being a part of those weeks is very special. Yeah, if I got asked or had the opportunity to go be a part of it, it would be awesome. We’ll see if we can take advantage of the next month or so starting here this week and give ourselves an outside shot at it.”

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