Sponsored by
Despite his short professional career spanning back to just 2009, US star Rickie Fowler has managed to establish himself with some of the world's best golfers as a firm favourite among fans and players alike with his great attitude and admirable skills.
Last year, the popular player saw off competition from current world number two Rory McIlroy to sail to a six-shot victory at the Kolon Korea Open in October after starting the day with a four-stroke lead over YE Yang - representing the first title of his short career.
Fowler carded a three-under-par closing round to finish on 16-under, despite consecutive bogeys on the last two holes at the Woo Jeong Hills Country Club.
"It was a lot of fun. I played well early on in the final round and then I was comfortable over the last few holes. Overall, I enjoyed the whole week," he said.
The 23-year-old recently hit headlines by taking the daring leap to change his preferred type of golf clubs in a bid to make improvements to his constantly-evolving game, saying goodbye to his Titleist driver, three-wood and irons four through nine to replace them with Cobra's AMP driver and three-wood, as well as AMP Pro RF prototype irons.
"It's not easy changing," he commented at the time. "But at the same time, a lot of guys are going through equipment changes throughout the year, even with the same company. So guys are constantly working in new equipment."
Born in December 1988 in Murrietta, California, Fowler's golfing ability was restricted only to the driving range from an early age - where he taught himself the tricks of the trade.
He posted an all-time course record of 62 at his home green during his freshman year in high school before leading his team to the state final in the SW League in 2007.
During the same year, Fowler represented his country in their victory at the Walker Cup, as well as carding sensational wins at the Sunnehanna Amateur and the Players Amateur the following month.
His first PGA Tour event as a professional came at the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open, where he managed a tie for seventh place, before coming in joint second at the Frys.com Open at Grayhawk Golf Club in Arizona.
Despite finishing outside the top ten at the recent Farmers Insurance Open, Fowlers growing fan base did not falter and his support continued throughout the competition and in the following weeks.
He is becoming increasingly well-known for his quirky appearance on the course, joining Englishman Ian Poulter as one of the most colourful players in the world of golf.
Career Wins
Oct 2011 - Korean Open
May 2012 - Wells Fargo Championship