Shane Lowry on Irish rugby, team sport, and playing with Rory McIlroy

The Ryder Cup is hardwired into Lowry's makeup. Team sport is part of his DNA. His father and uncles are steeped in Offaly lore. This is who he is

PLAYING PARTNERS? Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy of Europe on the first green during a practice round before the 2023 Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

A joint-record of nine different nationalities are represented on Team Europe this year but from the moment the first group emerge for their practice round, one thing becomes clear: This is house Rory.

Marco Simone golf course owner Lavinia Biagiotti has previously heralded him as her hero. Fans gathered to watch the opening practice round duly rolled out a hero’s welcome. McIlroy emerged to a huge roar at the first tee in a group that also contained Shane Lowry, Tommy Fleetwood, and Sepp Straka.