Shane Lowry confessed to his father that he was convinced he had missed the crucial putt that secured Europe’s Ryder Cup victory in New York. The golfer from Offaly described sinking the putt that ensured Europe retained the Ryder Cup as a more exhilarating feeling than winning The Open in Ireland. The United States, who were lagging behind 11.5-4.5 on the final day, made an astonishing comeback that left the European team fearing they would be on the losing end of history.
However, Lowry managed to sink a decisive putt on the 18th hole against Russell Henley, securing a half point and bringing Europe’s total to 14 points, making them unbeatable. This revelation comes amidst concerns that Team Europe stars could face a ban from the next Ryder Cup due to an unresolved issue. Despite this triumph, the world number 24 admitted afterwards that he believed he had missed the putt.
His father Brendan shared with The Ray D’Arcy Show on RTE Radio 1: “He said to me ‘Da, I was sure I missed it!’ He was certain it was going to lip out. The pressure that was there for that. it wasn’t looking good for Europe, really.”
Brendan, an All-Ireland winner with Offaly, also disclosed how challenging it was to remain composed amidst the abuse directed at Europe’s players by American fans.
“Some of them were abusive to put it mildly,” he added. “It was very, very, very, very bad. It was hard now, it was tough to stay calm. Apparently some of these guys just go to football matches and hockey matches. They just do the same, seemingly.
“We were warned. The parents and families got a briefing about the whole thing before. Just to get us to make sure to stay calm because you’re going to get abuse. It was tough to stay calm.”
Lowry conveyed his joy after securing triumph for Europe, stating before draws for Tyrrell Hatton and Bobby MacIntyre confirmed a 15-13 victory: “I’ve been so lucky to experience amazing things in this game.
“That was the hardest couple of hours of my whole life, honestly. I just can’t believe that putt went in. I said to (caddie) Darren (Reynolds) walking down 18, I said, ‘I have a chance to do the coolest thing in my life here’.
“The Ryder Cup means everything to me. Honestly, I’ve won the Open in Ireland; it’s amazing, it’s a dream come true. But the Ryder Cup for me is everything. To do that there today on the 18th green in front of everyone, it was so hard out there.”
