Shane Lowry backs up Rory McIlroy over latest claim

Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy Reflect on Olympic Golf Experience as One of Their Best Ever

Shane Lowry has expressed his agreement with Rory McIlroy, stating that the men’s Olympic golf tournament was one of the most remarkable events he has ever played in.

Rory McIlroy, who finished fifth at the Olympics, was initially disappointed with his performance but still praised the tournament, calling it the best he had ever played, apart from the Ryder Cup. McIlroy was particularly impressed by the atmosphere at Le Golf National, where the crowds left him in awe.

The 35-year-old golfer seemed to be out of contention for a medal on the final day. However, a series of birdies on the back nine brought him back into the race. Unfortunately, disaster struck at the 15th hole when he misjudged his approach, leading to his ball landing in the water, dashing his medal hopes.

Reflecting on the experience, McIlroy remarked, “I still think that the Ryder Cup is the best tournament that we have in our game. But I do think that this has the potential to be right up there with it. Think about how much of a mess the game of golf is right now and then think about the two tournaments that might be the purest form of competition in our sport, we don’t play for money in it.”

Shane Lowry, McIlroy’s Irish teammate, echoed these sentiments when he spoke to reporters ahead of the Wyndham Championship. The first round of the PGA Tour event at Sedgefield Country Club was canceled due to Tropical Storm Debby.

Lowry, who finished tied for 26th at the Olympics, had the honor of being the flagbearer for Team Ireland during the opening ceremony. He reflected on the experience, noting that during practice rounds at Le Golf National, they couldn’t fully grasp what the atmosphere would be like.

“You couldn’t really get a gauge for what it was going to be like,” Lowry said. “Walking onto that first tee and getting announced on Thursday was incredible. There are very few tournaments that are at that level. Honestly, it felt like one of the biggest tournaments in the world, it really did.”

Lowry went on to say, “I think it was an amazing week for golf and it was an amazing week for golf in the Olympics, and I think it will grow going forward. Obviously, we had a great podium as well, which helps, and great people to help promote the game.”

The Paris 2024 Olympics marked the third time golf has been included in the Games since its reinstatement. Lowry is convinced that golf in the Olympics should be here to stay.

“For me personally, it was some of the best ten days of my career, from carrying the flag for Ireland in the opening ceremony to going out there and playing for my country. A lot of Irish people traveled to support myself and Rory last week, and it didn’t go unnoticed.”

Reflecting on his overall experience, Lowry said, “It was an amazing ten days. When I look back on it, it will be something that I remember. I was very disappointed that I couldn’t do a better job, but the whole experience itself, I really enjoyed it.”