Rory McIlroy’s victory at the Irish Open yesterday was a massive occasion in this country, with an Irishman winning our national open a relative rarity in the history of the competition.
McIlroy had previously won the competition back in 2016, while Shane Lowry and Padraig Harrington also doing so in 2009 and 2007 respectively. Those are the only occasions that a player from this island have managed it in the last four decades.
The manner in which the 36-year old achieved the victory made it all the more special. His eagle putt on the 18th was remarkable, going on to win the tournament after the third play-off hole.
In terms of the other Irish representatives, Shane Lowry was the best of the rest. He would finish in a tie for 15th place on seven-under.
READ ALSO: Overseas Viewers Were In Disbelief At Irish Fans’ Reaction To Rory McIlroy’s Irish Open Win
READ ALSO: Shane Lowry Gave Admirably Candid Answer On Home ‘Pressure’ After Irish Open
Shane Lowry’s Irish Open Comments Could Intrigue Golf’s Biggest Stars
Recommended
Shane Lowry looked as though he could play himself into contention at one point during the Irish Open, although he could not quite manage to keep pace with the leaders over the weekend.
He still enjoyed himself immensely, although he would admit that it can be tough for local players in this event. In fact, he would take to social media to share his belief that the tournament was currently among the best in the global golfing calendar.
I always say it… the Amgen Irish Open is one of the best tournaments in the world. The venue, the sponsor and the crowds put on an amazing show this week.
And as for Rory…. Unreal stuff on 18 yesterday. The kids standing around that green will remember that roar for a long time. Exciting few weeks ahead for me now. Onwards and upwards.
Praise such as this can only boost the chances of seeing more of golf’s biggest names taking part in future editions of the Irish Open. The likes of Tyrell Hatton and Brooks Koepka were among this year’s field, committing to the event in an attempt to fine tune their game ahead of the Ryder Cup (although the latter would end up missing out on the USA team for Bethpage).
Lowry has previously suggested that a change in the tournament’s scheduling could also help in that regard, believing that a summer slot in the week after The Open could attract more PGA Tour stars to event. Another option would be to make it a co-sanctioned event between the DP World Tour and PGA Tour, similar to the current situation with the Scottish Open.
In any case, comments such as this one will hopefully catch the eye of those players moving forward.
Shane Lowry will now be hoping to carry his form into the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth this week, before a tilt at retaining the Ryder Cup in Bethpage at the end of the month.
SEE ALSO: Weird Quirk Sees Rory McIlroy Earn Less Money Than 2024 Irish Open Winner
