Shane Lowry’s Fiery Defense of Rory McIlroy’s Caddie Amid US Open Controversy

Shane Lowry’s Fiery Defense of Rory McIlroy’s Caddie Amid US Open Controversy

In a spirited defense, Shane Lowry has come to the aid of Rory McIlroy’s caddie, Harry Diamond, following severe criticism in the wake of McIlroy’s near-miss at the US Open in Pinehurst last month.

 

McIlroy agonizingly missed crucial putts on the 16th and 18th holes, the latter after opting for his driver on the final hole when a more conservative choice might have been prudent, especially considering Bryson DeChambeau’s aggressive approach off the tee.

 

Criticism was also directed at Diamond for McIlroy’s tee shot on the par-3 15th, which overshot the green. High-profile figures like coach Hank Haney and Golf Channel analyst Smylie Kaufman questioned the club selection and Diamond’s advisory role.

 

McIlroy defended his long-time friend and caddie during the Genesis Scottish Open, noting the absence of criticism during McIlroy’s many successful tournaments.

 

“It’s the one thing that really drives me insane,” Lowry vented on the Royal Troon driving range. “I watched Rory miss those putts and then people started criticizing him and Harry. It really makes my blood boil.

 

“Harry Diamond is the best person in the world to caddy for Rory McIlroy. I see it week in, week out. He works harder than any of the caddies out here, always arriving before Rory to walk the courses.

 

“He’s there for him, and even though he’s not in the middle of the tee box like those caddies who want to be on TV, he still makes his voice heard. Until you live that moment, you never know how it is.”

 

Lowry had anticipated the challenging nature of McIlroy’s putt on the 18th, recalling his own similar experience from 20 feet up the hill. He believed McIlroy struggled to apply enough break to his stroke.

 

Lowry’s support for Diamond also stemmed from empathy for McIlroy’s emotional state after a swift exit from Pinehurst, mirroring his own frustrations after the US Open eight years earlier.

 

In 2016, Lowry led the US Open by two strokes going into the final day but ended up tying for second after a disappointing final round of 76, finishing three shots behind Dustin Johnson.

 

“Shane Lowry in 2016 and Rory McIlroy in 2024 are two completely different people,” Lowry reflected. “I think Rory will handle it better than I did. I struggled for months after the US Open, but I’m sure Rory will be fine. He played some nice golf last week [at the Genesis Scottish Open]. He seems to be in great form on and off the course. I believe he will bounce back nicely this week.”