Spieth and Fowler Miss Arnold Palmer Exemptions

Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler have not received sponsor exemptions to participate in the upcoming Arnold Palmer Invitational, a decision confirmed by Sam Saunders, Arnold Palmer's grandson and a committee member. The exemptions were instead granted to players including Rafael Campos, Justin Rose, Min Woo Lee, and Mackenzie Hughes, with the aim to balance invitations and promote the overall growth of golf. Spieth, recovering from a wrist injury, has been selective with his participation and often prioritizes events in Texas, while Fowler's recent struggles with form may have influenced the decision. Both golfers can still qualify by winning the ongoing Cognizant Classic or performing well enough to qualify through the Aon Next 5 list. Fans have expressed mixed reactions to this decision, with some disappointed and others understanding the committee's attempt at objectivity.