Fowler sure he can break Major duck

Augusta – With an early-season victory and plenty of birdies, eighth-ranked Rickie Fowler (left) has renewed confidence he can capture a long-awaited first Major title this week at the Masters.

The 28-year-old American, who managed top-five finishes at all four Majors in 2014 without a victory, took his fourth US PGA title five weeks ago in the Honda Classic at PGA National, his first tour win after holding the 54-hole lead following four prior failures.

“To win that early in the season on that golf course, and being out front and closing the deal, it has helped,” Fowler said on Monday.

“And I think it showed from how well I’ve been swinging the past few weeks and then heading in the right direction coming into this week.”

Fowler, who has never broken 70 more than once in any of his six Masters appearances, shared third at the Houston Open on Sunday with form that gives him faith his game is exactly where it needs to be.

“I’m making a lot of birdies right now and that bodes well around this golf course,” Fowler said. “You’re going to make mistakes. You’re going to have to settle for bogeys here and there.”

In 2014, Fowler shared fifth at the Masters for his best showing yet at Augusta National. He also shared second at the US and British Opens and third in the PGA Championship. –