The Ryder Cup and its picks have ignited fierce debates within the golf community. While some of the individuals have been content with those who made the list, others seem to hold a strong opinion against certain choices made by the captain. One such player whose inclusion has attracted massive questioning is the only Irish man on the captain’s selection.

His subpar season has allowed many fingers to be pointed toward the golfer’s current form. However, it appears that all these criticisms and accusations have been finally put to an end, thanks to the European captain, Luke Donald, who recently opened up about the player’s unexpected selection and what he brings to the team.

Luke Donald extends support to 1-time major winner despite backlash

On Wednesday, during a press meet, Team Europe captain Luke Donald sat down to answer a few questions concerning his game and latest Ryder Cup selections. Most of the focus was on the latter and the arguments it had caused.

Thus, when one of the reporters asked the 45-year-old about his decision to pick Shane Lowry, he put forth an immediate answer. Calling the 2019 Open Championship winner a passionate golfer, Donald believed that the Irish athlete loved the team environment.

Elaborating on this explanation of his, the 5-time PGA Tour winner said, “I think he grew up around team sports. You know, you never walk into a room and see Shane on his own. He always got people around him.” 

Further, the captain felt that Shane Lowry is someone who is good at chatting and carries a positive vibe, which is important for team events. These statements of the captain have come amidst many denouncing remarks; prominently from the English golfer Richard Bland.

The LIV golfer provided a strong comment comparing Shane Lowry’s form with that of Adrian Meronk. However, the captain stood firmly with his crewmate, Lowry, and how his game brings an important element to the European side.

Reflecting on Shane Lowry’s tournament record, Luke Donald calls him a “big moments” player

Adding to his defense of Lowry, Donald reflected on being impressed by Lowry golf-wise. He admitted to the golfer’s caliber of proving himself during the “big moments” like being the Championship winner at Wentworth and winning the WGC. He confidently stated him to being able to “deliver” on the greatest stages.

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Quoting his Whistling Straits performance, he supported Lowry’s passionate gameplay along with holing putts when he needed to. For picking him in his six choices, Donald stated the main reason was knowing whether his players could perform in tough situations, in which Lowry stood out.

Despite the off-course talks, Donald’s picks can only be tested on the Ryder Cup greens. With that, what do you think of Luke Donald’s outlook on Shane Lowry’s inclusion and his positive backing of the player? Let us know in the comments below.

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