Shane Lowry, carrying his Ryder Cup momentum, found the Delhi traffic noise less distracting compared to the rowdy New York crowd as he surged to the top of the leaderboard at the DP World India Championship. The Irish golfer clinched a crucial half point in the previous month to secure the trophy, despite facing hostility on Long Island.
Teaming up with European captain Luke Donald and Tommy Fleetwood, ranked 25th globally, Lowry impressed with five consecutive birdies on the back nine, finishing with an opening 64 and a one-shot lead. Reflecting on the experience, Lowry expressed his satisfaction with the draw and the camaraderie among the players, highlighting the positive recent performances.
The atmosphere on the course sparked some reminiscing about the Ryder Cup, with the sounds of Delhi’s traffic serving as a backdrop. Lowry emphasized the competitive spirit among the golfers, despite their friendships, aiming to deliver their best performances.
Lowry, who delivered an impeccable round with eight birdies, praised the challenging 6,912-yard course at the Delhi Golf Club, noting its suitability to his playing style. The 2019 Open champion welcomed the narrower course layout, aiming to capitalize on this advantage throughout the tournament.
In contrast, fellow Irishman Rory McIlroy faced a tougher challenge, opting not to use his driver during his three-under 69 round, which included a mix of birdies and bogeys. McIlroy highlighted the course’s difficulty, leading him to strategize carefully and adjust his club selection accordingly.
The event saw an intriguing mix of strategies and performances from the players, showcasing their adaptability and skill on the demanding course. The competition promises further excitement as the tournament progresses.