Rickie Fowler, a beloved 35-year-old golfer, is currently struggling with a season-long slump, placing him at No. 91 in the FedEx Cup standings with six weeks left until the playoffs. He is hopeful that participating in the 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic at Detroit Golf Club will help kickstart a playoff run. Last year, Fowler experienced a resurgence in his game in Detroit, securing his first victory in over four years with a birdie putt during a sudden-death playoff. This win was particularly special as it occurred shortly after he became a father, marking a significant milestone in his personal and professional life.
Following his triumph at the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic, Fowler’s world ranking drastically improved, and he received a spot on the U.S. Ryder Cup team. However, this year has been challenging for him, with only two top-20 finishes in 16 starts and multiple missed cuts. His ball-striking, which was instrumental in his previous success, has declined significantly this season, affecting his overall performance on the course. Fowler acknowledges that he has been playing poorly and is working on remaining patient while waiting for progress.
In order to improve his game, Fowler realizes the importance of regaining confidence in his putting. While he excelled in this aspect during his victory at Detroit Golf Club last year, his current ranking in Strokes Gained: Putting has dropped significantly. Fowler believes that performing well on the greens is crucial to freeing up the rest of his game and allowing him to play better overall. Despite his struggles, a recent top-20 finish at the Travelers Championship has provided him with a sense of progress and optimism.
Fowler, who thrived at Detroit GC last year, is looking forward to returning to the course that holds happy memories for him. The Donald Ross layout, dating back to 1916, is highly regarded by Fowler and many other players for its old-school golf course architecture. With rain expected during the tournament, the course should offer favorable conditions for Fowler, who led the field in par breakers last year. The potential renovation of the course before next year’s event adds an additional layer of excitement for Fowler and his fellow competitors.
As Fowler aims to reignite his game and break free from his current performance slump, returning to the site of his previous victory may provide him with the necessary spark. The significant gap between his last two victories serves as a reminder of the challenges he has faced in recent years. By focusing on building momentum and having fun during the upcoming tournament, Fowler hopes to overcome the difficulties he has encountered this season and recapture the success he experienced in Detroit. With determination and dedication, Fowler remains hopeful that he can once again find his winning form and compete at the highest level in the sport.
