PINEHURST — Shane Lowry has revealed that Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited Masters triumph has reignited his own ambitions for major glory, as he prepares for the 2025 US Open at Pinehurst No. 2. Lowry, the 2019 Open Champion, believes McIlroy’s career Grand Slam victory in April has set a benchmark for Irish golf—one he is determined to match.
"Seeing Rory finally get that green jacket was massive for all of us," Lowry said in his pre-tournament press conference. "It reminded me what’s possible when you keep pushing. I’ve had my moments, but I want more. This week’s about kicking on." McIlroy’s emotional win at Augusta National, his fifth major and first since 2014, ended a decade-long drought and solidified his place among golf’s all-time greats.
A Spark for Lowry’s Major Aspirations
Lowry, 37, has been a consistent contender in majors since his breakthrough at Royal Portrush, with six top-10 finishes since 2020. Yet, the Clara native admits McIlroy’s resurgence has sharpened his focus. "Rory’s win wasn’t just a personal milestone—it was a wake-up call. If he can break through after all those near-misses, why can’t I?"
The statistics back Lowry’s optimism. In 2025, he ranks:
- 12th in Strokes Gained: Approach (1.02 per round)
- 8th in Scrambling (66.3%)
- Top 20 in three of his last five majors
Pinehurst: A Test of Patience and Precision
The US Open’s return to Pinehurst No. 2—a Donald Ross-designed masterpiece known for its crowned greens and wiregrass rough—plays to Lowry’s strengths. His elite short game and ability to grind out pars align perfectly with the tournament’s brutal demands. "You won’t see many birdies here," he noted. "It’s about staying patient and capitalizing on the few chances you get."
Key Adjustments for Success
Lowry’s caddie, Brian "Bo" Martin, revealed subtle tweaks to their strategy:
- Prioritizing 3-wood off the tee for accuracy over distance
- Practicing 30-yard "run-up" shots to combat firm greens
- Mental preparation for inevitable setbacks
The McIlroy Effect: A Ripple Through Irish Golf
McIlroy’s influence extends beyond trophies. His recent form—three wins in 2025, including the Wells Fargo Championship—has galvanized Ireland’s golfing community. Lowry isn’t the only one feeling the ripple effect; rising star Tom McKibbin credited McIlroy’s mentorship for his own PGA Tour breakthrough.
"Rory’s shown us all how to handle pressure," Lowry added. "When he birdied 16 at Augusta to seal it, I got chills. That’s the standard. Now it’s my turn to step up." The pair practiced together earlier this week, sharing notes on Pinehurst’s treacherous greens.
Looking Ahead: Lowry’s Major Blueprint
With the Open Championship returning to Royal Portrush in 2026—the site of Lowry’s greatest triumph—he views this US Open as a critical stepping stone. "Winning another major would mean everything," he admitted. "But first, I need to put myself in position. That starts here."
Analysts agree. Golf Channel’s Brandel Chamblee noted: "Shane’s game is tailor-made for US Opens. If he keeps the ball in play and trusts his wedge game, he’ll contend. McIlroy’s win might just be the catalyst he needed."
Conclusion: A Week of Opportunity
As Pinehurst’s famed turtleback greens await, Lowry enters Thursday’s first round with renewed belief. McIlroy’s Masters victory has proven that perseverance pays off—a lesson Lowry aims to embody. "Golf’s a funny game," he smiled. "One week changes everything. Why not this one?"
With favorable morning tee times and forecasted winds under 10 mph, conditions could favor Lowry’s precision-based approach. Whether he joins McIlroy in the major winner’s circle this week remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the fire burns brighter than ever.
