Shane Lowry Compares Ryder Cup Crowd to Manchester Derby Experience

Shane Lowry, the Irish golfer and fan of Manchester United, made an amusing comparison between the intense atmosphere of the Ryder Cup and the fierce rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool. As Team Europe prepares for the Ryder Cup on US soil from September 26-28, Lowry noted the challenges of facing a boisterous crowd in New York.

Currently competing in The Irish Open at The K Club in Kildare, Lowry discussed the heightened expectations and preparations required for such an event. Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference, the 38-year-old reflected on the potential hostility of the audience. He stated, “If you talk to any sportsperson who plays home and away fixtures… Let’s say if you’re a footballer playing for Man United and you’re going to Anfield…”

He paused, then added with a smile, “Well, if you are a Man United player heading to Anfield you’re probably going to get beaten!” Despite the jest, Lowry expressed a serious awareness of the environment he and his European teammates will face at the Ryder Cup.

The Ryder Cup, which will feature 50,000 spectators, contrasts sharply with the supportive crowd they experienced in Rome during the previous event. Lowry emphasized that the team will be well prepared for the challenge. He mentioned, “We had 50,000 people cheering us on in Rome, whereas this time we’ll have 50,000 people rooting against us. So it is going to be different, but I do think we’re going to be really well prepared.”

Joining Lowry in his preparation is fellow golfer Rory McIlroy, who, along with Lowry and Tyrrell Hatton, is also competing in The Irish Open. European captain Luke Donald is actively working on strategies to ensure the team is ready for the upcoming competition. Lowry noted, “From next week we’re all going to be together. I think Luke wants to get the ball rolling and I’m sure he’ll be putting some things in place over the next while.”

In a light-hearted moment during the press conference, Lowry was asked about McIlroy’s acting debut in the upcoming film “Happy Gilmore 2.” He humorously relayed his daughter’s opinion, calling McIlroy “the worst actor in the world,” which drew laughter from the media present.

Reflecting on the potential for a hostile atmosphere in the upcoming Ryder Cup, Lowry remarked, “When you’re prepared for something, it’s a lot easier to deal with. We’ll be prepared for it. When you’re prepared for the worst, you can deal with anything.” He acknowledged that heckling could be surprising at regular events, but with adequate preparation, the team could handle any challenges.

Lowry, who was selected as one of six captain’s picks by Donald, joins an impressive group of players. The team includes automatic qualifiers such as McIlroy, Robert MacIntyre, Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Rose, Rasmus Hojgaard, and Tyrrell Hatton. The competition will certainly be fierce, as Team USA also boasts a strong lineup, including players like Scottie Scheffler, Justin Thomas, and Collin Morikawa.

While Team Europe faces the daunting prospect of competing on home turf for Team USA, Lowry’s confidence in their preparation and resilience may prove to be crucial as they aim to secure victory in the prestigious tournament.