As anticipation builds for The Open Championship at Royal Portrush, Shane Lowry has spoken candidly about Rory McIlroy’s dedication to the game, praising the Northern Irishman’s relentless work ethic and commitment to improvement.
Lowry, the 2019 Open champion, described how much he has learned from McIlroy through years of friendship and competition. The two have grown close both on and off the course, often practicing together and even teaming up to win the 2024 Zurich Classic.
“I certainly feel like I’ve learned a lot from his work ethic and how I apply myself to the game now,” Lowry said in an interview. “We spend a lot of time together, and watching how driven he is has been an eye-opener.”
McIlroy, a four-time major champion, has been under intense scrutiny since his heartbreaking missed cut at Royal Portrush in 2019. That year, playing in front of a home crowd, McIlroy shot a disastrous opening round of 79 and failed to recover. Lowry went on to win the tournament and called the moment both emotional and unforgettable.
Reflecting on that experience, Lowry said, “That first tee in 2019 was the most nervous I’ve ever been. And for Rory, it was probably even more intense. He put a lot of pressure on himself, but I think he’s learned from that.”
McIlroy himself has admitted he let the occasion get the better of him six years ago. Now, heading back to the same course, expectations are once again high — but this time, he’s taking a different mental approach.
Lowry believes that change in mindset will make a difference. “He’s done everything there is to do in the game, and yet he still wants to get better. That says everything about his character.”
With both Irishmen entering the tournament in strong form, the stage is set for a dramatic week at Portrush. Lowry remains hopeful that both he and McIlroy can thrive, not just for personal glory but for the home fans eager to see one of their own lift the Claret Jug.
“It’s a special place, and it would mean the world to us,” Lowry added. “If either of us were to win here again, it would be unforgettable.”
