Despite days of adversity and a regrettable round on Saturday, it appeared that Shane Lowry was destined to claim his second victory at the 152nd Open at Royal Troon. However, a disastrous nine holes on the third day of play quashed any such dreams, modifications replaced aspirations. Lowry, however, is a testament to perseverance and resilience, as evidenced in his actions during the tournament’s final day.
Struggling and visibly damaged following the 77 score on Saturday, Lowry bounced back for the championship’s climax, championing his skills and tenacity. Impressive shots, innovative moves, and spectacular putts made spectators cheered enthusiastically as he scored a final round of 68, resulting in a four-under-par 280 to secure a solid sixth-place finish. Lowry himself was acutely aware: it could have certainly been an even better outcome.
The damaging ‘Postage Stamp’, a small golf hole which served as Lowry’s downfall on the traumatic Saturday, saw him falter initially. Yet, in a spirit of defiance, Lowry returned to the hole on the championship’s concluding day, managing to score a birdie putt – a feat met with overwhelming applause and his celebratory punch to the sky, signifying his redemption.
So, how did Lowry manage to pick himself up from a near disaster and portray an individual of strength within just 24 hours? The commendations go to Lowry and his powerful backup crew. Neil Manchip, his coach, mustered a boundless-time conversation, and Pádraig Harrington added valuable input during an impromptu discussion in the players’ lounge. A commendable performance indeed.
Even in the midst of disappointment, Lowry found comfort in his small daughter, Iris, who had the wisdom to remind him that he was still in the game. Iris reflected her father’s melancholy but encouraged him with hopes of victory, a sentiment she might have picked up from Wendy. The moment warmed Lowry’s heart.
A conversation with his coach echoed a similar setback from the US Open in Oakymont in 2016. At that time, Lowry was poised close to a title, only to lose it to Dustin Johnson. His coach, Neil, urged him to put up a bigger fight this time. Neil instructed Lowry not to repeat his previous mistake of not trying hard enough, even if the fight wasn’t enough for a win.
Lowry’s victory seemed less probable due to the harsh wind and rain on the previous Saturday which destabilized his two-day lead. His hopes were briefly revived after a spectacular five-hole stretch, momentarily placing him one shot below the lead. However, his success was short-lived; the homeward stretch only offered a long-range effort on the 17th.
The championship was snatched by Xander Schauffele, who had similarly won the US PGA in Louisville. Lowry, however, shifted his spirits from the previous day’s despair to a newfound optimism. Despite missing out on major titles and the chance to enter the Royal Portrush Open as the defending champion, Lowry managed to secure his second top-six finish in a major tournament that year. The performance earned him more FedEx Cup points, promoting him to the 10th position and catapulting him on to the PGA Tour’s finale in Atlanta. His sights, however, are firmly set on the forthcoming Paris Olympics.
Lowry expressed his satisfaction for the golf he’s been playing and his desire to clinch a medal for Ireland, with a preference for gold, though he’d be contented with any of the three. Turning his attention back to The Open, Lowry felt a twinge of regret.
Despite the swirl of opinions implying that he should have emerged as the victor given his position heading into Saturday, Lowry chose to see the glass as half-full. He affirms that the tournament’s win is not easily attained, drawing from his past experience. Despite falling short this time around, he holds an optimistic outlook.
His intent is to continually give himself opportunities for victories in these contests over the coming five to ten years, and eventually secure at least one more triumph. Lowry remains hopeful and positive, never losing sight of his ambition expressed earlier in the week to add another win to his tally.