Shane Lowry Just Made History at Oakmont (While Having a Meltdown)

By Lewis Barnett 12 June, 2025 5 mins read 75 Views

Listen, I've been covering golf for twelve years, and I've never seen anything quite like what Shane Lowry pulled off today at Oakmont.

The Irish golfer was having an absolute nightmare round - six over par and probably wondering why he didn't just stay home in Clara. Playing alongside Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose (talk about pressure), Lowry looked like he was ready to throw his clubs into the nearest bunker. Then he did something that's never been done in US Open history at this hole.

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The Shot That Changed Everything

From 160 yards out on the par-4 third hole (his 12th of the day), Lowry hit what looked like a decent approach shot. Nothing special. The ball bounced a couple times, rolled toward the pin, and... disappeared.

Eagle. Historic eagle.

The third hole at Oakmont had never - and I mean NEVER - given up an eagle 2 in US Open history. Until today. My buddy in the press tent turned to me and said, "Did that just happen?" Yeah, it happened.

But Wait, There's More Drama

Here's where it gets interesting (and slightly embarrassing for Shane). Earlier in his round, Lowry had what you might call a "moment" with some TV equipment. After fluffing a recovery shot from the rough, he grabbed a greenside microphone and basically yeeted it across the fairway.

The audio picked up everything. Not his finest moment, but honestly? We've all been there.

Poor guy was struggling at +6 when frustration got the better of him. The cameras caught the whole thing, and you could see him immediately regretting it. That's golf for you - one minute you're making history, the next you're apologizing to broadcast technicians.

Oakmont Doesn't Care About Your Feelings

This course is brutal. Always has been. I remember covering the 2016 US Open here when Lowry finished T2 - he knows how to play this track, but today it was eating players alive.

The conditions were actually as "benign" as Oakmont gets (which isn't saying much), but they're expecting things to get downright nasty over the weekend. Wind, firm greens, the whole Pennsylvania special.

Lowry's eagle briefly got him back to +4, which felt like a small miracle given how his round started. The guy's got serious game on tough courses - just ask anyone who's watched him at Bay Hill or Muirfield Village.

The Bigger Picture

While Shane was making history and losing his temper, Scottie Scheffler was doing Scottie Scheffler things (aka being really, really good at golf). He's the betting favorite after winning three of his last four starts, which is just ridiculous.

Rory McIlroy, meanwhile, is trying to figure out what happened to his driver after last week's disaster at the RBC Canadian Open. Golf is weird like that - one week you're bombing drives, the next week you can't find the fairway with GPS.

But honestly? Today belonged to Lowry and that eagle. Sure, he threw some equipment around like a toddler having a tantrum, but he also etched his name in Oakmont's record books.

Not a bad trade-off, really.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do pro golfers utilize rest and recovery?

A pro golfer’s training program is not complete without rest and recovery. A good rest allows the body time to recover and rejuvenate. This helps prevent injury and fatigue. Golfers use a range of recovery techniques, including sleep optimization, active recuperation, massage therapy and stretching. During rest periods they may engage in lighter activities to promote recovery and avoid over-taxing their bodies. This is vital to maintain high performance through the long tour schedules.

What is course management and its importance in golfer training for professional players?

Course management is an essential aspect of training for pro golfers and it extends beyond sheer athleticism and swing technique. It is about making strategic decisions that are based on various risk-reward scenario's. During training, a golfer learns to assess factors such as wind conditions, course topography, hazards, and pin placements. Golfers, working with a coach or caddy who is knowledgeable, can develop game plans which play to their strength and avoid their weakness. This ability becomes just as important as their physical game.

What are some common injuries pro golfers face, and how do they prevent them?

Back pains, wrist injuries, tendinitis or shoulder issues are some of the most common injuries suffered by professional golfers. Prevention strategies are a key component of their training programs, entailing regular fitness exercises focused on strengthening the muscles used in golf and increasing flexibility. Swing analysis helps golfers ensure that their technique doesn't put too much stress on the body. Warm-up exercises, good nutrition, and consultations with physical therapists can all help prevent injury.

How does the weather affect a golfer’s training?

Weather conditions can significantly impact a pro golfer's training routine. A bad weather condition may require indoor practice using indoor training facilities and simulators. Pro golfers prepare for different conditions by proactively using varied weather conditions. For example, they practice in the rain, wind or at different temperatures to get used to the various conditions they might face during tournaments. They can adjust their gear and shot strategy to fit the environment.

How often do golfers replace their equipment?

Golf pros often change and reassess equipment to suit their needs. They do this to adapt to any changes they may have made to their bodies, their swings, or to the requirements of a new course. Wedges and putters may need to be replaced or modified in order to keep the grooves sharp and maintain a precise feel. Golf balls can also be chosen for their performance or condition. Changing equipment is a decision that requires careful consideration and testing.

Statistics

Up to 90% of professional golfers incorporate some form of cross-training into their fitness regimen.
Statistical data indicates that around 50% of pro golfers have experienced a golf-related injury due to overtraining.
Studies show that consuming a balanced diet is a priority for 95% of professional golfers as part of their training protocol.
Nearly 40% of professional golfers update their swing analysis software at least once every two years to stay at the forefront of technology.
About 70% of professional golfers report practicing in adverse weather conditions to improve their adaptability to the elements.
Professional golfers under the age of 25 spend, on average, 10% more time on driving range practice compared to those over 25.
Approximately 65% of a pro golfer's training time is allocated to short game practice, including putting and chipping.
Pro golfers over the age of 35 tend to dedicate at least 20% more time to flexibility training than their younger counterparts.

External Links

How To

How to Prepare Mentally and Physically for a Golf Tournament

Preparing mentally for a golf tournament involves setting clear objectives, establishing a confident mindset, and planning strategies for each hole. In terms of physical preparation, professional golfers must taper their training to ensure their bodies are rested. It's important to practice in similar conditions as those on tournament days. Mental rehearsal and developing a consistent shot routine can help boost confidence and reduce anxieties.