In a disappointing turn of events, Rickie Fowler has officially withdrawn from the WM Phoenix Open due to an illness, as announced by the PGA Tour on Thursday.
Originally set to tee off at 12:06 p.m. EST alongside fellow competitors Xander Schauffele and Jon Rahm, Fowler becomes the second player to step back from the tournament this week, following Justin Rose’s earlier withdrawal.
The 34-year-old golfer has been grappling with an unspecified illness over the past few days, which has hindered his ability to practice or play at his usual level. After consulting with his doctor on Thursday morning, he made the tough decision to withdraw.
“I’m very disappointed to have to withdraw from the WM Phoenix Open,” Fowler expressed in a heartfelt statement. “I love playing in front of the fans here and was genuinely looking forward to this week. Unfortunately, I’m not feeling well enough to compete at my best.
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