We’re sure you all heard. Several top golfers, including Sahith Theegala, Tom Kim, Min Woo Lee, Billy Horschel, Max Homa, and Cameron Young, surprisingly missed the cut at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, sparking speculation that their participation in the TGL league might be affecting their game. As Monday Q Info aptly put it, “The extra travel, swings, time, etc., that TGL takes for guys might not be great for their games.” 

But, one golfer silenced everyone with his top-notch performance in the match. Yes, we are talking about Shane Lowry. The golfer has turned to the Arnold Palmer Invitational, where he’s been paired with Rory McIlroy. And it’s been a successful partnership so far, with Lowry posting a two-shot lead heading into the weekend. The 37-year-old Irishman reeled off six birdies and one bogey to head into the weekend at the Bay Hill Club & Lodge on eight under through 36 holes, but well, Lowry surely has something to say about his pairing.

When asked about playing alongside McIlroy, Lowry downplayed the hype surrounding McIlroy’s golf swings at Bay Hill. Instead, he focused on the benefits of competing against one of the world’s best golfers. “I enjoy it, you know, playing one of the best players in the world and big crowds out there on a beautiful day on a great golf course,” Lowry said in an interview with the Golf Channel on YouTube. He appreciated the challenge and the opportunity to test his skills against a top-notch opponent.

Lowry’s performance has been strong, and he acknowledged that playing with McIlroy had helped him stay focused. “I felt like we played well off each other the last couple of days,” he said. “I know I’m a few shots ahead of him, but I’m sure he’s going to be dangerous this weekend, too.” Dangerous? What does Lowry mean by that?

Well, it’s a pairing that spells danger for the competition, but McIlroy’s emotions almost got the better of him as he bogeyed the final hole, letting out a frustrated “F*** off!” after a wayward tee shot, which was broadcast live on Sky Sports, prompting an apology from the commentator. Despite the disappointing finish, McIlroy had an otherwise impressive day, with highlights including a stunning 269-yard approach shot and a clever ‘fried egg’ bunker shot, leaving him tied for sixth at two-under par, just three shots behind leader Wyndham Clark.

When asked about his approach to the rest of the tournament, Lowry added, “Just keep doing the same things.” With his focus firmly on the game, Lowry aims to maintain his momentum and secure a strong finish at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, and he seems to be enjoying the grind all thanks to his partner.

How does playing with Rory McIlroy look for Shane Lowry?

Playing alongside close friend Rory McIlroy has been a recipe for success for Shane Lowry at the Arnold Palmer Invitational as they have shared their fair share of scrutiny together as well. Lowry believes that playing with someone he gets along with has helped take his mind off the task at hand. “If I’m playing with somebody I like and get on well with, I’ll have conversations in the walk between shots,” Lowry said. “It’s a long day out there, so you need to occupy your mind somehow. I felt like we had a good time doing our job at the same time.” This approach has paid off, with Lowry posting a two-shot lead heading into the weekend.

Lowry’s strong start to the tournament has been fueled by his friendship with McIlroy, and he’s relishing the opportunity to compete against one of the world’s best golfers. “You’re out there with one of the best golfers in the world, with big crowds, great golf course, lovely weather, what’s not to like? It’s easy to get up for something like that,” Lowry said. It sure seems the golfer is enjoying his time on the course as he takes the lead. So, do you think he’ll be able to win the tournament? Let us know in the comment section below!