Rickie Fowler Withdraws from WM Phoenix Open Due to Illness

The WM Phoenix Open and Scottsdale hold a special place in Rickie Fowler’s heart. The tournament introduced him to the professional circuit with a sponsor invitation in 2009 and has since been a yearly fixture. Fowler claims victory at “The People’s Open” in 2019 and even commemorate it as the site of his first date with his wife, Allison. However, his recent participation took an unexpected turn as he withdrew from the tournament last Thursday, citing health issues.

Fowler had a challenging start to the tournament, finishing tied for 21st place at The American Express and tied for 53rd at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. His third-round performance at the WM Phoenix Open saw him struggle, posting a 2-over 74 with bogeys on his first two holes and a double bogey on the ninth hole. Despite his start, Fowler could not overcome his medical condition and withdrew from the competition.

Following his withdrawal, Fowler provided an update on his health through an Instagram story, stating, “I’m bummed I had to WD this week… I was battling the flu Thursday, and come Friday morning I wasn’t in a position to play… The @wmphoenixopen is my favorite event of the year!! With a lot of rest, we are off to @thegenesisinv and looking forward to picking the clubs back up.”

Further details on Fowler’s health condition emerged from the Instagram account @rickie_tracker, which revealed a fever of 103 degrees Fahrenheit, a headache, and physical discomfort the night before his withdrawal.

Fowler’s decision to withdraw highlights his dedication to the sport and professional integrity. His medical condition, rather than performance concerns, seems to be the primary reason for his absence. With his background and reputation for commitment, such an explanation is plausible.

Interestingly, Fowler’s withdrawal from the WM Phoenix Open didn’t impact his immediate future. Despite not qualifying automatically, he received a special invitation for the upcoming Genesis Invitational, set to take place at Torrey Pines from February 13–16, 2025. Although currently ranked 85th in the world by OWGR, Fowler remains a popular figure among golf fans.

The Genesis Invitational: A New Chapter

The Genesis Invitational promises exciting action, featuring the world’s top players. Notable participants include world number one Scottie Scheffler. Fowler’s participation adds to the tournament’s allure for fans.

Golf analyst Patrick McDonald has highlighted Tony Finau as another contender to watch out for. His +4500 odds reflect his potential to perform well but not dominate the field. Finau’s record at Torrey Pines, including seven consecutive top-25 finishes from 2015 to 2021, emphasizes his versatility and skill on this course.

Tiger Woods was initially part of the Genesis Invitational’s lineup. In the aftermath of his mother’s passing, he had expressed his intention to compete, sparking fan support. However, Woods ultimately decided to prioritize his family’s needs and will not attend the event.

The Impact and Future of the Genesis Invitational

The Genesis Invitational will feature a compelling and diverse field of golfers, ready to showcase their skills. As Fowler recovers, his performance in the upcoming tournament could be a source of excitement for fans. Similarly, the possibility of Tiger Woods rejoining competitive golf adds a layer of anticipation for the event.

The tournament’s dynamics, combined with Fowler’s comeback and Woods’ potential return, promise to deliver a memorable and emotionally charged experience for golf fans worldwide.

Join the Conversation

All eyes are set on the Genesis Invitational as the tournament approaches. Who do you think will perform exceptionally well? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Whether you predict Fowler’s stunning comeback, Finau’s breakout performance, or another player’s stellar showing, your perspectives are valuable.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more updates, analyses, and stories from the world of golf. And if you enjoyed this article, don’t hesitate to share it on your social media platforms to stay ahead of the latest news in the golfing world.