The 151st Open Championship at Royal Liverpool Golf Club not only showcased the world’s best golfers competing for The Claret Jug but also provided a glimpse into the deep-rooted connection between English football and its passionate fans. One incident in particular shed light on this cultural phenomenon, as it involved golfer Rickie Fowler’s decision to withdraw his planned investment in Leeds United, which drew mixed reactions from both supporters and critics alike.
Sports enthusiasts attending The Open couldn’t help but showcase their love for both golf and football. The vicinity of the Royal Liverpool Golf Club to Anfield, the iconic home of Liverpool FC, further reinforced the intertwining of these two great sporting traditions. Fans proudly wore their favorite football team’s kits or scarves while passionately supporting their golf idols and occasionally expressing their views on their investment choices, as exemplified by Fowler’s experience.
Rickie Fowler found himself at the center of attention when news broke that he had withdrawn from a minority investment opportunity in Leeds United, a storied English football club recently relegated from the Premier League to the Championship division. A portion of the golfing community and some ardent football fans vented their disappointment towards Fowler’s choice, labelling him a “coward” on the golf course. However, Fowler was quick to emphasize that the vast majority of fans were incredibly supportive.
Interestingly, two of Fowler’s closest friends on the golf circuit, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas, remained committed to their minority stakes in Leeds United despite Fowler’s withdrawal. In interview remarks following his third round at The Open, Fowler clarified that his decision was based on advice from his financial team rather than any lack of enthusiasm for the club. He expressed his hope that Thomas and Spieth’s involvement would contribute to the team’s success and eventual return to the Premier League.
Despite his decision not to invest, Fowler undeniably harbors optimism for the future of Leeds United. He sincerely hopes that the club turns its fortunes around and strives towards securing promotion back to the prestigious Premier League. Fowler acknowledges that his friends, Thomas and Spieth, would derive immense happiness from such an achievement, as their commitment to the club remains unwavering.
The Business Press 