Rickie Fowler knows better than anyone else that the Masters is a special tournament with special rules.
Back in 2011, Fowler was a young golfer making his name and blazing a path.
A young Rickie Fowler learned the hard way in 2011 that the Masters has its own set of special rules
A young Rickie Fowler learned the hard way in 2011 that the Masters has its own set of special rules.
He also had a highly unique fashion style, which included matching clothing and hats.
But rules are rules at Augusta, and Fowler quickly learned that he had to adapt at golf’s most prestigious event — or else.
A then 22-year-old Fowler sat for an interview in the Masters media centre with his classic look, which involved a hat worn backward.
He was quickly asked by an Augusta National member to turn the hat around so that it faced the proper direction.
Fowler replied with what seemed like obvious reasoning — he wore his hat backward so people could see his face easier.
That didn’t fly at the Masters.
Fowler was asked for the second time to turn his hat around.
The future six-time PGA Tour winner and Players Championship trophy recipient relented, giving way to the tradition and rules that make the Masters what it is.
Fowler has learned to embrace the Masters in his older age
Fowler has learned to embrace the Masters in his older age
The book is still out on Fowler’s fashion style during his early PGA days
The book is still out on Fowler’s fashion style during his early PGA days
Fowler, 35, has won more than $49 million since his 2009 pro debut.
After trading a dirt-bike riding career for golf, he’s captured the Rocket Mortgage Classic and Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler visit North Berwick Golf Club in East Lothian, Scotland.
Fowler has an invite to the 2024 Masters, which will be held April 11-14 in Augusta, Georgia.
Dating back to 1934, the Masters has been home to some of golf’s greatest moments.
It also has old-school strict rules.
Autographs, cellphones and cameras are no-nos.
Running also isn’t allowed, with walking emphasised throughout the course.
Sitting on the lush, green grass is also forbidden.
The same for chairs with arm rests.
As a young Fowler learned in 2011, the Masters is a special place — as long as you don’t wear a hat backward.
