Shane Lowry Reflects on His Triumphant 2019 Open Championship Win at Royal Portrush as the Event Returns
“Have you heard a noise like that on a golf course ever before?” These were the words echoing through the celebration surrounding Shane Lowry’s commanding victory at the 2019 Open Championship, held at the esteemed Royal Portrush. Lowry’s performance was nothing short of historic, culminating in a six-shot triumph that ended a 68-year wait for an Irish Open champion on home soil. As the championship gears up for its return to Northern Ireland’s Antrim Coast, Lowry shares his reflections on that unforgettable week.
The 2019 Open at Royal Portrush was a scriptwriter’s dream, an event charged with anticipation and culminating in a performance that will be etched in golfing history. Lowry, a local hero, emerged as the unexpected star, overshadowing pre-tournament favorites like Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell, Padraig Harrington, and Darren Clarke. His journey to the top began with an opening round 67, positioning him just a shot off the lead. He matched that score the following day before unleashing a spectacular 63, which propelled him into a commanding four-shot lead heading into the final round.
Lowry described the Saturday afternoon of the championship as “the most incredible experience my whole career.” He recalled the palpable energy, the crowd singing, and the feeling of playing some of the best golf of his life, admitting, “I felt like I couldn’t do anything wrong.” The victory was a deeply personal one, celebrated not just by the fans but cherished by his family, especially his father, Brendan, whose joyful presence on the course Lowry noted with emotion.
“Sunday was a tough day, but I got through it pretty well and thankfully I came out on the right side,” the 38-year-old from Clara, County Offaly, shared. The pressure was immense, a feeling so intense that Lowry confessed, “I couldn’t eat, I was so nervous.” Despite the challenging weather conditions, which he famously seemed to ignore by playing in a short-sleeved top, Lowry maintained an extraordinary level of focus. The moment the win was secured, seeing his family and the crowd, brought the magnitude of his achievement into sharp focus.
Navigating Expectations: Lowry Looks Ahead to The Open at Portrush
Lowry’s journey to his 2019 Open triumph was built on a foundation of solid performances earlier that year, including a win in Abu Dhabi. However, he also acknowledged the unique challenge of playing in Ireland, driven by his own high expectations. “Ultimately I want to win. I really, really want to win another one,” he stated, emphasizing that the desire to succeed at The Open, particularly at Portrush, was a powerful motivator.
Returning to Portrush this year, Lowry anticipates a different dynamic. While Rory McIlroy will undoubtedly draw significant attention, Lowry, as the previous champion, will also be a focal point. “There will have to be something in place for me to go about my business the way I want because, ultimately, yes, it’s great – I won there last time – but I’m not going to be happy unless I perform again there this time,” he asserted. This forward-looking perspective highlights his ambition to remain at the pinnacle of the sport.
Since his breakthrough win, Lowry has continued to impress, securing the 2022 BMW PGA title and the Zurich Classic of New Orleans in partnership with McIlroy. His current world ranking of 18th, a climb from 33rd when he first won the Claret Jug, and his experience in two Ryder Cups, underscore his growth as a player. Lowry feels he is now better equipped to handle the pressure of golf’s biggest moments. Reflecting on his chances, he added, “I always feel like when I go to the Open Championship, if I can rock up mentally in the right place I can achieve something good that week.” He remains focused on ensuring he extracts the best from himself, drawing lessons from past performances like his sixth-place finish at Troon last year.