In a recent twist in the world of golf, Shane Lowry expressed his lack of surprise over Jon Rahm’s switch from the PGA Tour to the LIV Golf series. This move came after Rahm, ranked third globally, had contributed significantly to Europe’s victory in the Ryder Cup against the United States in Rome last October.
Lowry, alongside Rahm, played a pivotal role in reclaiming the Ryder Cup for Europe. He commented on the rumors preceding Rahm’s departure, saying, “There’s always some truth behind rumors, isn’t there?”
Rahm, a native of Spain, had initially dismissed the idea of joining the LIV series after its 2022 inception. However, his recent decision marks a major shift, with a reported deal worth over £450 million ($570 million). While this is a considerable loss for the PGA Tour, Lowry remains optimistic about the future unification of men’s professional golf.
Greg Norman, a key figure in golf, suggested that Rahm’s move might lead to further changes, akin to ‘more apples falling from the tree.’
Amidst these developments, June saw the PGA and DP World Tours announce a potential merger with the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, which has committed $2 billion (£1.6 billion) to LIV. This deal, however, faces a year-end deadline and scrutiny from the American government.
Lowry, the 2019 Open champion, expressed his hopes for a unified golfing world. “I’m focused on my game, but I’m hopeful we’ll be back playing the same tournaments soon. That’s what golf needs,” he stated.
The conversation then shifted to the Ryder Cup. Rory McIlroy, a vocal opponent of LIV, recently suggested revising the eligibility rules for Ryder Cup participants. Lowry, keen on winning the next Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York in 2025, remarked, “If Jon Rahm’s presence is key to our victory, perhaps he should be included.”
Looking ahead, Lowry, 36, has his sights set on significant achievements in 2024, including adding to his major titles and pursuing Olympic glory in Paris. Known for his impressive Masters performances, Lowry aims to be the first Irishman to triumph at Augusta. “Winning a green jacket would be a dream come true, a real bucket list achievement,” he shared at the 2024 Irish Open launch.
Lowry, who last won individually at the 2022 BMW PGA Championship, remains driven. “I’m highly motivated, with plenty more to achieve. I’m focusing on peaking for the Masters – it’s always on my mind. Let’s see what happens,” he concluded with determined optimism.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Shane Lowry LIV Golf
Why did Shane Lowry express no surprise over Jon Rahm’s move to LIV Golf?
Shane Lowry was not surprised by Jon Rahm’s decision to join LIV Golf, as there had been rumors about Rahm’s potential move. Lowry believes that in the current climate of golf, such changes are to be expected.
What are Shane Lowry’s views on the future of men’s professional golf?
Shane Lowry is optimistic about the future unification of men’s professional golf. Despite the current fractured landscape, he hopes that players from different tours will soon compete in the same tournaments again.
How did Rory McIlroy’s stance on LIV Golf players participating in the Ryder Cup change?
Rory McIlroy, initially a critic of LIV Golf, reversed his stance on the eligibility of LIV Golf players for the Ryder Cup. He suggested that the Europe-based DP World Tour should reconsider its rules to possibly include them.
What are Shane Lowry’s personal goals for the year 2024?
Shane Lowry aims to add to his major titles and win a medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. He is particularly focused on the Masters, aiming to peak for this tournament as he aspires to be the first Irishman to win at Augusta.
How did Jon Rahm’s move impact the PGA Tour?
Jon Rahm’s departure to join LIV Golf represents a significant loss for the PGA Tour. His move is part of a broader trend of top players leaving for the Saudi-funded tour, affecting the competitive landscape of golf.
More about Shane Lowry LIV Golf
- Shane Lowry’s Comments on LIV Golf
- Jon Rahm’s Move to LIV Golf
- Future of Men’s Professional Golf
- Rory McIlroy’s Stance on Ryder Cup Eligibility
- Shane Lowry’s Goals for 2024
- Impact of LIV Golf on PGA Tour
5 comments
Proud of Lowry for keeping his focus, aiming for the Masters is a big deal, he’s got a real shot at it, fingers crossed for our guy!
wow, didn’t expect Rahm to jump ship to LIV Golf, but then again, money talks right? its kinda sad to see how golf is getting divided like this.
Lowry’s optimism about a unified golf future sounds good but I’m not holding my breath, too much politics and money involved, sadly.
Shane’s comments are on point, the golf world is so unpredictable now, every day there’s some new drama, just wanna see good golf tbh.
Interesting to see McIlroy changing his tune about LIV players in the Ryder Cup, politics in sports eh, always a twist and turn.