PGA Tour fan-favourite Rickie Fowler reacts to securing Open spot: "So excited for that opportunity"

Rickie Fowler says he's heading in the right direction after he secured his spot in July's Open Championship at Royal Portrush.

Fowler played last week's signature event on a sponsor exemption and made the most of it by finishing inside the top 10. 

His performance at the Memorial Tournament - won by a relentless Scottie Scheffler - meant he qualified for the final men's major of the year in Northern Ireland.

The annual PGA Tour stop, hosted by Jack Nicklaus, awarded the leading golfer not otherwise exempt a spot in the field as it forms part of the Open qualifying series. 

Fowler made a clutch up and down from the sand at the last to save par and finish the week on 1-under.

Presidents Cup captain Brandt Snedeker was already in the clubhouse on the same score and it looked as though he was going to be heading to Portrush and not Fowler.

But as Fowler is above the veteran in the Official World Golf Ranking, the spot went to the 36-year-old. 

Fowler has tumbled down to 124th in the rankings whilst Snedeker began the week in 430th. 

"We're heading the right way," Fowler told reporters.

"This week still could have been a lot better, but definite positive is going over to Portrush. That's one I've wanted on the schedule. 

"I had a great time when we were there the last and had a decent showing as well. So links golf's my favourite, Portrush is a great spot, so excited for that opportunity."

Fowler will now turn his attention to U.S. Open final qualifying. 

Hundreds of golfers are playing at 10 separate venues all over the U.S. in what is now known as golf's longest day. 

Fowler is playing at Kinsale Golf Club where six spots are on offer.

Notables in that field include PGA Tour members Bud Cauley, Eric Cole, Matt Kuchar, Adam Hadwin and Cameron Young.

Three-time major winner Padraig Harrington is also trying his luck. As is former LIV Golf pro James Piot.

Fowler said had a look at the venue before heading to Muirfield Village.

"It's [going to be] a long day," Fowler said. "But [if I] go play some solid golf it should all work out."