McDowell confirmed for Irish Open

The European Tour have announced that Graeme McDowell will play at this year’s 3 Irish Open, when the tournament returns to Killarney Golf and Fishing Club from July 29 to August 1.

McDowell became the first Irishman in history to lift the US Open with his victory at Pebble Beach on Sunday, as the 30-year-old stormed from 37th to 13th in the Official World Golf Ranking and straight to the top of The Race to Dubai.

McDowell’s first Major win has also cemented his place in Europe’s Ryder Cup Team to face the United States in Wales this October but before that he wants to add the 3 Irish Open trophy to his burgeoning trophy cabinet at home in Portrush.

"To be able to tee up at the 3 Irish Open as the US Open Champion is going to be pretty special," said McDowell after his one-stroke victory over Frenchman Grégory Havret at Pebble Beach.

"I look forward to the 3 Irish Open every year, but to able to compete in front of the Irish fans as a Major winner will be an awesome feeling.

"It’s shaping up to be a great event down in Killarney - I know that 3, The Tour and Failte Ireland are working hard on putting together a great event over the bank holiday weekend.

"We are looking at having a great field this year in a fantastic location and you can start to feel a lot of optimism around the 3 Irish Open."