Shane Lowry found the hustle of Delhi’s traffic less distracting than the rowdy New York crowd, showcasing his Ryder Cup skills by leading in India. With Luke Donald and Tommy Fleetwood, Lowry, ranked 25th globally, delivered five consecutive birdies on the back nine for a stellar start with a one-shot advantage at the DP World India Championship.
Lowry expressed his delight at being paired with his fellow players following recent successes. Reflecting on the experience, he noted the contrasting noise levels between the traffic horns in Delhi and the disruptive atmosphere at Bethpage during the Ryder Cup.
Despite some friendly Ryder Cup banter, Lowry emphasized the competitive spirit among professional golfers striving for the best scores. His flawless round, featuring eight birdies, showcased his enjoyment of the challenging 6,912-yard course at Delhi Golf Club, a layout he feels suits his playing style.
In contrast, Rory McIlroy opted for a more conservative approach without his driver, navigating the course with precision to finish at three-under with a mix of birdies and bogeys. McIlroy highlighted the strategic demands of the course, opting for longer irons off the tee to set up his approach shots on the par-5 holes.
The tournament promises an exciting week ahead as top players navigate the intricate course and vie for victory.