Rickie Fowler recently celebrated his 37th birthday on December 13, and the occasion once again highlighted why he remains one of golf’s most beloved figures. Known for his colorful fashion and approachable personality, Fowler has built a reputation that goes far beyond trophies and scorecards.
His relaxed birthday celebrations, filled with laughter and genuine moments shared online, reminded fans why he continues to resonate so deeply with the golfing community.
As the PGA Tour favorite enters another year, it feels like the perfect moment to revisit some of the standout memories Fowler has shared with his closest friends on tour—Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas.
Their bond, built through competition, practice rounds, and life away from the course, has produced several unforgettable moments over the years.
A stunning Par-3 Contest performance with Justin Thomas
One of the most iconic moments involving Fowler and Thomas dates back to the 2016 Masters Par-3 Contest.
Playing together, the pair delivered an extraordinary display by hitting back-to-back holes-in-one on the same hole. Thomas struck first with a brilliant ace, only for Fowler to respond immediately with another flawless shot.
Jordan Spieth, who was also part of the group, couldn’t match their feat and was jokingly teased by his friends afterward. Reflecting on the moment, Spieth admitted it was one of the toughest shots he’d ever faced after watching two consecutive aces, adding that it was still a joy to witness from within the group.
Fowler’s ace in front of Thomas shows their enduring friendship
Another memorable highlight came in April 2024, when Fowler recorded an ace with Thomas watching nearby. While Thomas didn’t replicate the shot this time, his reaction stole the spotlight, as cameras captured him celebrating Fowler’s moment with genuine excitement and pride.
The trio of Fowler, Spieth, and Thomas are known to spend significant time together both on and off the course. In 2022, they practiced together at Ireland’s Tralee and Lahinch Golf Clubs, continuing a long tradition of shared practice sessions and vacations that reflect how close their friendship truly is.
Dominating the Presidents Cup as Team USA’s top duo
Fowler and Thomas also proved their chemistry under pressure during the 2017 Presidents Cup. Representing Team USA, the pair emerged as the most successful duo of the competition, delivering dominant performances against international opponents.
Ahead of the matches, Thomas stressed the importance of bringing their best, knowing how tough the competition would be. Team captain Steve Stricker paired them against Louis Oosthuizen and Branden Grace, a decision that paid off handsomely. Fowler later praised Thomas, calling him arguably the best player in the world at the time and acknowledging how much he continued to impress everyone around him.
Supporting Justin Thomas at the 2023 Scottish Open
Fowler’s loyalty to Thomas was also on full display during the 2023 Scottish Open. Despite having an early tee time himself, Fowler made sure to watch Thomas play later in the day. He was spotted observing from a balcony overlooking the eighth hole at The Renaissance Club.
Thomas noticed his friend’s presence and waved toward Fowler after his shot, sharing a brief but heartfelt moment. Fowler responded with a warm smile before continuing his own round, perfectly capturing the mutual respect and friendship between the two.
When Jordan Spieth picked Fowler as his “drunk golf” partner
Fowler’s friendship with Jordan Spieth has its fair share of humorous moments as well. In a 2018 appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, Spieth was asked who he would choose as his partner in a Ryder Cup—under the unusual condition that both players would be drunk.
Without hesitation, Spieth selected Fowler. He explained that Fowler’s natural talent made him capable of playing well under almost any circumstance, joking that Fowler could probably perform barefoot or even on one foot. Spieth also admitted that both he and Thomas struggle significantly when drinking, while Fowler somehow manages to thrive.
Together with Thomas and Smylie Kaufman, Fowler and Spieth are part of the famous “Spring Break” group, a tight-knit circle known for blending elite golf with plenty of fun.
