Why did Rickie fowler get benched at the Rome match on Saturday?
The 34-year old American, who is competing in his fifth Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club, Italy, did not play in either of the sessions on Saturday. The 34-year-old American, who is playing in his fifth Ryder Cup at the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Italy, also sat out Friday’s afternoon fourballs.
Fowler was rumored as one of several players who were suffering from a virus that U.S. captain Zach Johnson claimed had been spreading through the locker room. Todd Lewis of Golf Channel reported that Fowler was suffering from a sinus infection. Johnson, however, said that Fowler’s Saturday day of rest was not due to an illness. It was a captain’s choice.
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Johnson explained, “Our matchups thought it best to take this route.” “Rickie’s a consummate team player and professional. After the embrace, I smiled and will never forget it. It’s not easy. Every match, every session — excuse me, I want to play them all. It goes without saying. It was just that. He is an incredibly dear, dear, close friend. Knowing him, I’m sure it is motivational.”
Fowler will face Tommy Fleetwood , the single who played with Collin Morikawa on Friday in a foursomes match, in Match 11.
The U.S. is 10 1/2 to 5 1/2 behind the U.K. at the end of day three.
