Tommy Martin: Lowry Europe's spiritual leader as golf gets emotional

While Rory has remained firmly buttoned up so far, it is Shane who has had a bawl before he has even struck a ball

CROWD PLEASER: Shane Lowry signs autographs after practice for the Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Only Thursday at the Ryder Cup and already not a dry eye in the house.

Last time most people thought about the Ryder Cup was when Rory blubbered his way through a post-round interview in the aftermath of Europe’s shellacking at Whistling Straits two years ago.