Sam Saunders has confirmed that Rickie Fowler and Jordan Spieth will not receive sponsor exemptions for this year's Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill.

Due to the tournament's new status as a Signature Event with a limited 70-player field, the selection process for the four available exemptions has become particularly challenging. Both Fowler and Spieth, who finished outside the top 50 in last year's FedEx Cup standings, are not automatically qualified for Signature Events this season.

Rafael Campos has secured one of the four available exemptions, with his thoughtful application letter and embodiment of Palmer's values playing a key role in his selection.

Saunders explained that while it "genuinely kills us" to turn down players like Fowler and Spieth, the limited field size makes these decisions especially difficult. "None of the exemptions are chosen lightly. It's about what's good for the game of golf," Saunders stated.

Fowler, who has historically served as an unofficial tournament ambassador, responded graciously to the news, saying "They're sponsor exemptions and they get to give them out where they feel. Obviously, I'm bummed but I can't complain about some more time at home."

Both Spieth and Fowler can still qualify for the tournament by either winning the Cognizant Classic or finishing in the top five of the Aon Next 5 standings.

Related Articles

Previous Articles