Rory McIlroy has announced his participation in the upcoming Amgen Irish Open at Royal County Down, a course he is intimately familiar with. The event, part of the DP World Tour, is scheduled for September 12th-15th at the Newcastle site.
Having hosted the tournament at this celebrated coastal course in 2015, McIlroy successfully attracted top players like Rickie Fowler, although he did not make the cut himself that year.
McIlroy, who clinched the title in 2016, anticipates his involvement this year, especially preceding the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, will boost the already high demand for the limited daily tickets.
Reflecting on his longstanding relationship with the Irish Open, McIlroy, originally from Holywood, Co Down, expressed immense enthusiasm for this year’s edition. “It holds a special place for me, and playing so close to where I grew up makes it even more significant. The Royal County Down is a remarkable venue, and my memories of the 2007 Walker Cup here are vivid. The support from the crowds for the Irish players is unparalleled, and I’m eager to experience that incredible atmosphere once again,” he said.
McIlroy is joined by Shane Lowry, who has also confirmed his early participation in the event, one of the most prestigious on the European circuit. McIlroy regards the Irish Open as a crucial national open that should be included in any global tour, especially as men’s professional golf adapts to new challenges, including the emergence of LIV Golf and ongoing negotiations with the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour.
In other golf news, England’s Callum Shinkwin was briefly on track for a 59 during the opening round of the Ras Al Khaimah Championship in the UAE, after a series of eight consecutive birdies. However, he eventually recorded a 10-under-par 62, securing a two-stroke lead over fellow Englishman Richard Mansell and South African Brendon Stone.
Tom McKibbin has started the season well with an opening round of 69 (tied-31st), while Pádraig Harrington began with a solid one-under-par 71.
