Rickie Fowler hopes for strong showing in New Orleans

The American started the year well but, still searching for his first major title, missed the cut at the Masters.

Fowler, 27, wants a good performance at the TPC of Louisiana to set him up ahead of three title defences later in the year.

He will also be aiming to be the first player to go back-to-back at The Players Championship, which starts on May 12.

"Obviously the finish I had there definitely helped me with the wins that followed," Fowler said.

"It's continued to help with confidence from there. I want to go back and be in a position to defend. Nobody has done it before. It would be nice for that opportunity.

"I'm looking forward to getting some good weeks here and making this the start of a big stretch in playing well through the summer."

In New Orleans, Fowler will have to overcome the likes of world number one Jason Day and defending champion Justin Rose.