Shane Lowry has opened up on playing alongside LIV Golf star Phil Mickelson during the final round at the Masters this year, having struggled at Augusta National across the weekend
Shane Lowry has opened up on playing alongside Phil Mickelson at the Masters
Shane Lowry said playing the final “fun” round with Phil Mickelson was the highlight of his disappointing Masters – having previously stated he felt intimidated by the six-time major champion.
The Ryder Cup star failed to break par in any rounds after carding a closing 74 to finish on eight-over par. But the Irishman did have the compensation of spending the final day get a close up view of three-time champion Mickelson who made his 101st cut in Majors.
Lowry has previously teamed up with Mickelson and claimed in 2020 that playing with the LIV Golf star was the first instance where he felt intimidated on the golf course.
However, his opinion seems to have shifted as he recently commended the two-time Masters champion.
Later on, the winner of the 2019 Open expressed his thoughts, mentioning that Phil is skilled and enjoyable to play golf with. He also appreciated some of the shots Phil made, mentioning that he found it particularly enjoyable as a spectator.
“When I looked at the schedule last night, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to play a Masters Sunday with him.
He definitely lived up to his reputation.
He made some incredible shots, including one from the trees on the 8th hole that only he would attempt and succeed in. It was a great experience.”
The player ranked 36th in the world expressed disappointment in his own performance at Augusta National, recording a total of 19 bogeys.
“Not very good,” said Lowry. “I’m a little disappointed obviously. I played all right golf throughout the week, just made a lot of bogeys, a lot of bogeys. No big mistakes, nothing disastrous, just a lot of bogeys. I think for me this week is probably the most special week of the year. Disappointed not to give it a decent run this year.
Shane Lowry (R) has openly admitted in the past he was intimidated by playing with Phil Mickelson (L)
“Yeah, hopefully I have a few more years left of giving it a run out here. It’s over now. I’m going to go back to the drawing board and see what I can do next week heading into Hilton Head.”
In 2020, Lowry shared his experience of playing with Mickelson at the Wells Fargo Championship. He admitted that he felt intimidated playing alongside Mickelson at Quail Hollow in Charlotte. Lowry mentioned feeling different on the golf course that day and sensing a large crowd presence. He recalled playing with Mickelson on a Saturday and discussing his experience with his coach, Neil.
Lowry highlighted the impact of playing with a seasoned golfer like Mickelson on his confidence and mindset. He acknowledged feeling the pressure of the crowd and Mickelson’s presence during the tournament.
Lowry reflected on the unique experience of playing with such a renowned golfer like Mickelson. He mentioned the lasting impression Mickelson’s game had on him and his approach to golf. Lowry described the atmosphere during the round with Mickelson as intense and memorable.
He emphasized Mickelson’s influence on his own performance and mindset during the tournament.
Lowry looked back on the experience of playing with Mickelson as a formative and challenging moment in his career. He credited Mickelson for pushing him to perform at his best and rise to the occasion.
Lowry expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from and compete alongside a golfer of Mickelson’s caliber. He shared his appreciation for Mickelson’s talent and skill on the course.
Lowry’s encounter with Mickelson at the Wells Fargo Championship left a lasting impression on his approach to golf. He recognized the impact Mickelson had on his own game and development as a golfer.
Lowry’s experience playing with Mickelson served as a valuable lesson in handling pressure and expectations on the course.
He acknowledged the influence Mickelson had on his own performance and mindset during the tournament.
Overall, Lowry’s reflections on playing with Mickelson shed light on the challenges and rewards of competing at the highest level of professional golf.
Phil performed well, scoring seven under par, while I played at an average level, shooting even par.
It felt strange and slightly intimidating to be playing alongside such a renowned and admired golf star whom I have looked up to for years.”