Two-time European Tour champion Rickie Fowler has replaced Bubba Watson as the top-ranked player to represent the United States in the World Cup of Golf, which will be held at Kingston Heath Golf Club from November 24-27.
Fowler promptly chose six-time US PGA Tour champion Jimmy Walker, who won his first Major Championship at the US PGA Championship this year, to be his partner in the two-man team competition.
Watson had expressed his desire to play on the American team, but ultimately changed his mind due to scheduling and personal reasons.
“It was a very difficult choice not to play in the World Cup of Golf,” said Watson.
“I was extremely excited to have the opportunity to represent my country and to play in Australia, a place where I have always enjoyed playing golf. But Rickie and Jimmy will do a great job as a team, and I wish them the best.”
Fowler and Walker, who were paired together twice at the Presidents Cup in 2015, most notably when beating Anirban Lahiri and Thongchai Jaidee 5&4, will both be playing in the World Cup of Golf for the first time.
“Coming off the amazing experience that I had at the Olympics, it’s great to have the chance to put on the red, white and blue again and play for the United States in the World Cup of Golf,” Fowler said.
“Jimmy is not only one of my favourite guys out here on Tour, but he is clearly one of the most talented players on our Tour as well.
I think we’ll make a fantastic team, and our strengths will work well together.
Rickie Fowler
“I’ve heard great things about Kingston Heath, and can’t wait to get to Australia.”
The top players from the 28 qualifying countries committed to the event on August 16, and have until this Friday (August 26) to choose their playing partners. Already, the field for the World Cup of Golf in 2016 boasts several of the game’s biggest names, including defending champions Jason Day and Adam Scott of Australia, the English pair of Danny Willett and Lee Westwood, and Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama.
The 2016 tournament will return to a two-man team event competition, with the first and third days played in the foursomes (alternate shot) format, whilst the second and final days are fourballs.
Tickets and hospitality packages starting at AUD $30 are now available by visiting the World Cup of Golf websitehere
