Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Shane Lowry’s bold call before The Open could be a stroke of genius, as only four top players did it too

Originally posted on HITC | By Antony Martin | Last updated Jul 13, 2025 3:36 PM ET

Shane Lowry became a national hero in 2019 when he triumphed at Royal Portrush. Now, with The Open returning to that very course, there’s a renewed anxiety surrounding the 38-year-old as he eyes a second major title on home soil.

It hasn’t been the smoothest of runs for Lowry in recent months. A narrow defeat to Sepp Straka at the Truist Championship and a patch of inconsistent form have left him searching for rhythm.

Still, few venues could offer a better backdrop for a resurgence than Portrush – a place forever linked to one of his finest moments.

He took a page from Rory McIlroy’s book by skipping media duties after that tough loss at the Truist Championship.

And over the past two months, he’s often looked frustrated out on the course.

Lowry came under fire for how he handled himself at the US Open in June, where his emotions seemed to get away from him at Oakmont.

Lowry’s Open preparation could pay off

Photo by Matthew Lewis/R&A/R&A via Getty Images

Focused on his Open Championship prep, Shane Lowry skipped the Scottish Open and its lucrative prize money this year, a different approach from many of the game’s top players.

Instead, Lowry spent time playing links golf with friends in Ireland – something that may have helped him rediscover some enjoyment in the game.

Only four other players inside the top 25 of the Official World Golf Rankings who were eligible for The Scottish Open made the same choice.

It was a rare move, but there is some history behind it. He followed a similar plan before winning The Open at Royal Portrush in 2019.

The memories of that win are still fresh for him, and it’s clear he’s looking to repeat what worked last time around.

He also got an early look at Portrush two weeks ago, fitting in a scouting trip ahead of this year’s tournament.

The decision to miss The Scottish Open might turn out to be a smart one. He has had a far less demanding week than he would have faced at The Renaissance Club. And that kind of build-up could suit him perfectly heading into Royal Portrush.