In the midst of the intense action at the 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational, Rickie Fowler added a dose of Florida flair — and a bit of heart-stopping humor — to his round. The PGA Tour’s official X account captured the moment in a viral post that’s got golf fans buzzing.
Walking along the water’s edge at Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Fowler and his caddie, Ricky Romano, spotted a sizable alligator lurking just offshore. Channeling the spirit of Cody Gribble’s famous 2017 gator nudge at the same event, Fowler playfully grabbed his caddie, who quickly jumped back.
The commentary nailed it: “Watch Ricky here. Oh! You gotta love it. Shades of Cody Gribble from years past.”
The clip shows Fowler in his signature orange, while Romano keeps his distance (smart move, as the post quips), “Gotta keep your head on a swivel when Rickie Fowler is around.” No harm done, but it’s a reminder of the unique hazards at this Orlando staple.
Gotta keep your head on a swivel when Rickie Fowler is around 😂 pic.twitter.com/hLXe6gND6T
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) March 8, 2026
Replies poured in with laughs and admiration, calling Fowler a “prank master” and “certified menace.” One fan noted it’s gator mating season, so things could’ve gotten “weird.” Classic Rickie — keeping the vibes light even with teeth in the water.
