'I Haven't Necessarily Made A Decision' - Fowler On Saudi League
Rickie Fowler is considering an approach from the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series


Rickie Fowler is one of the most popular figures on the PGA Tour and certainly one of the most recognisable faces outside of the game. With that, it's little surprise the American was approached by the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series and it would seem he's considering their proposal.
Addressing the media at Southern Hills, the American said: "To be straightforward with you guys, I haven't necessarily made a decision one way or the other. I've mentioned in the past, do I currently think that the PGA Tour is the best place to play? I do. Do I think it can be better? Yes.
"So I think it's an interesting position. Obviously there's the LIV and Premier [Golf League], as well. These tours or leagues or whatever - however you want to classify or call them, they wouldn't really be coming up if they didn't see that there was more opportunity out there."
Whilst he remained complimentary to the PGA Tour, Fowler refused to follow the stance of the game's marquee names and pledge his fealty (thank you, Jon Rahm) to the PGA Tour.
One thing that remained on his mind was the possibility of repercussion. Last week, the Tour revealed it had denied release requests for its members to participate in the Series opener at Centurion Club next month. It is expected that future Series requests will also be denied given they clash with events in Northern America.
Speaking of that decision, Fowler said: "If someone goes and plays, I don't know, I'm like trying to learn as much as I can. I have no commitment one way or another. Obviously the statement came out last week that they weren't granting any releases. I think a lot of people thought that the first one being out of the country may not be an issue. Obviously it would be more so once it came into the United States."
The 33-year-old added: "I'm sure there will be some sort of consequences but I really don't know at this time. It's almost kind of have to wait and see, and see what happens. I mean, I would say there's a handful of things, like I said, the Tour's currently best place to play in the world, hands-down.
"I feel like there needs to be some clarity between if you're an independent contractor or are you basically an employee. I think guys would probably like to know. Because if you're trying to make a decision one way or the other, I know there's some guys that are probably in a position where the consequence may not matter."
Despite falling to 146th in the Official World Golf Ranking, Fowler would be an enormous coup for the Series. His five victories include the Players Championship and a FedEx Cup Series event in the Deutsche Bank Championship. In 2014, the American featured in the top-5 in each of the four Major championships.
Fowler is the youngest known star to be seriously considering his place in the Series and is making his 13th PGA Championship start this week. He earned his place in the field after he finished in the top-10 last year.
Get the Golf Monthly Newsletter
Tips on how to play better, latest equipment reviews, interviews with the biggest names and more.

James joined Golf Monthly having previously written for other digital outlets. He is obsessed with all areas of the game – from tournament golf, to history, equipment, technique and travel. He is also an avid collector of memorabilia; with items from the likes of Bobby Jones, Tiger Woods, Francis Ouimet, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Adam Scott and Ernie Els. As well as writing for Golf Monthly, James’ golfing highlight is fist bumping Phil Mickelson on his way to winning the Open Championship at Muirfield in 2013. James grew up on the east coast of England and is the third generation of his golfing family. He now resides in Leeds and is a member of Cobble Hall Golf Club with a handicap index of 1.7. His favourite films are The Legend of Bagger Vance and Tin Cup.
-
5 Tips For Finding The Perfect Foursomes Partner
While foursomes may not be the most popular golf format, with the right partnership, it can be the most enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect partner
By Carly Frost Published
-
Tiger Woods In Line For Significant World-Rankings Jump At Hero World Challenge
Woods could make a significant jump in the OWGR upon his professional comeback after seven months out
By Jonny Leighfield Published
-
What Is The PGA Championship Playoff Format?
How will the trophy be decided if there is a tie at the second Major of the year at Oak Hill?
By Mike Hall Published
-
PGA Championship Final Round Tee Times And Pairings 2023
Take a look at the groups and starting times for Sunday's action at Oak Hill Country Club
By Elliott Heath Published
-
15 Things You Didn’t Know About The PGA Championship
How well do you know the second men's Major of the year?
By Elliott Heath Published
-
Why There Are No Amateurs In The PGA Championship
The PGA Championship is the only Major that doesn't invite amateurs, but why is that?
By Mike Hall Published
-
8 Biggest Names Missing The 2023 PGA Championship
A number of huge names are missing with injury or haven't managed to qualify for the second men's Major of the year
By Elliott Heath Published
-
PGA Championship Field Finalised For Oak Hill 2023
Justin Thomas will be hoping to repeat his success of last year as he aims for this third win in the Major
By Mike Hall Published
-
Which LIV Golf Players Have Qualified For The PGA Championship?
A total of 18 LIV Golf players are eligible for the 2023 Oak Hill Country Club Major – here’s how they got there
By Mike Hall Published
-
How Many LIV Players Have Won The PGA Championship?
Eligible LIV Golf players will compete in the 2023 PGA Championship, and among them are some former winners
By Mike Hall Published