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Shane Lowry faces backlash for behaviour on golf course during Rory McIlroy loss


Irish golfing sensation Shane Lowry was criticised by a commentator for apparently failing to yell “fore” when his stray shot hit a marshal during the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. The 37-year-old entered the final round at the iconic Californian course just one shot behind leader Sepp Straka, but ultimately had to settle for second place.

Lowry’s performance in the Signature Event on the American circuit fell short as fellow Irishman Rory McIlroy secured the title by two shots. Both players, who share a close off-course friendship, scored holes-in-one during the opening round at Carmel.

However, Lowry faced criticism from Sky Sports commentator Andrew Coltart for seemingly breaching basic etiquette after a misplaced drive on the 15th hole. The broadcaster expressed his displeasure at Lowry’s failure to warn others as his shot struck an unsuspecting course attendant, knocking him to the ground.

The TV personality exclaimed: “Oh dear. Didn’t hear him shout ‘fore’. We need to be hearing players shout ‘fore’.”

The marshal appeared to wince in pain after being hit by the drive in his shoulder area. The ball had travelled 92 feet at an estimated speed of 169mph, and the sight of the volunteer writhing in pain caused concern among spectators.

The drama on the golf course took a lighter turn when it was confirmed by commentators that the spectator struck by an off-target tee shot came out mostly unharmed. Lowry couldn’t quite clinch victory as he settled for 19-under par after a riveting faceoff at Pebble Beach, netting a handsome $2.16 million reward for his efforts.

Fresh from his win, the Pebble Beach champion expressed his respect for his fellow countryman’s performance, sharing with CBS: “It was nice to walk up here, it was also good to see Shane make four to finish second on his own. That will make our flight home a little bit better. A really cool day.”

Savouring his success, McIlroy reflected on his achievement saying: “Yeah, some people would argue that the courses I have won on are not up to a Pebble Beach or an Augusta or whatever, but to win at one of the cathedrals of golf, it’s pretty cool.

“I knew today was going to be tough, it was going to be exciting with so many guys around the lead and I guess with it being Pebble Beach I had to put that to the back of my mind and just go out there and shoot a score, which I was able to. Really cool to have that walk up 18, take it all in was very cool.”

This article originally appeared on Irish Star

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