Rory Mcilroy refused to join Zurich Classic 2025 with Shane Lowry after a conflict

New Orleans, April 22, 2025– Rory Mcilroy, the world’s leading golf, decided not to return to Zurich Classic of New Orleans to protect the title and long -time teammate Shane Lowry, after the conflicts between the two were thought to have exploded. This decision surprised fans, especially after the duo’s great success in the tournament last year.

Conflict between Mcilroy and Lowry

Rory Mcilroy and Shane Lowry used to be a symbol of close friendship in the golf village, with an emotional victory at Zurich Classic 2024. The couple overcame many strong opponents to take the throne in the format of team competition, creating one of the memorable moments of the PGA Tour season. However, recent sources said the relationship between the two Irish golfers had cracked, with unable to reconcile recent reconciliation.

A post on social network X from @golfinsideruk account on the morning of April 22 revealed: “Drama at the top! Rory Mcilroy and Shane Lowry Reportedly Clashed Over Team Strategy and Commitments. Rory Pulls Out of Zurich Classic Defense.” (The drama is at the peak! Rory Mcilroy and Shane Lowry are said to have conflicts about the team strategy and commitment. Rory withdraws from protecting the title of Zurich Classic). Although there is no official confirmation from both sides, this information has sparked many debates in the golf community.

The reason Mcilroy withdrew

According to the reports, Mcilroy informed the Organizing Committee Zurich Classic that he would not participate in this year’s tournament, although he had previously expressed excitement with returning to New Orleans. Some sources believe that the main reason is due to the conflict with Lowry, related to the approach in team competitions and personal schedules. In addition, McIlroy is also focusing on preparing for the upcoming Major, especially PGA Championship and The Open, where he sets the goal of ending the thirst for the big title lasting more than a decade.

A fan on X commented: “Rory and Shane Falling Out? That’s a shocker. They were unbeatable at Zurich Last Year!” (Rory and Shane quarrel? Shocked. They were unbeaten in Zurich last year!). These reactions show the regret of fans when witnessing the duo used to disintegrate.

Reaction from Shane Lowry

Shane Lowry, who has not yet officially spoken about the incident, is said to be very disappointed with Mcilroy’s decision. Lowry once shared in an interview after the victory of Zurich Classic 2024 that he was looking forward to the opportunity to reunite with Mcilroy to continue succeeding. However, with Mcilroy withdrawing, Lowry may have to find a new partner if he wants to continue to join the tournament.

Some golf experts said that Lowry, with a stable play style and team spirit, can still create a surprise at Zurich Classic, even though the absence of Mcilroy will be a big loss. “Shane is a great golf player, but Chemistry between him and Rory is a special thing. It is difficult to recreate it,” Golf Analyst David Feherty commented on golf channel.

Impact on Zurich Classic

Zurich Classic, one of the unique events of the PGA Tour with teamfathering format, always attracts attention thanks to star couples like McIlroy and Lowry. The absence of McIlroy not only affects the attraction of the tournament but also asks the future of the famous couples in the golf village. The organizers have not made an official comment, but they are expected to find a way to fill the gap by inviting other top golfers.

The future of Mcilroy and Lowry

This incident is not only a story about Zurich Classic but also raises speculation about the relationship between Mcilroy and Lowry in the long term. Both are members of the European Ryder Cup and each side in many team events, but the current conflict can affect their cooperation in the future, especially at the Ryder Cup 2025 in Bethpage Black.

Fans hope that Mcilroy and Lowry will soon resolve disagreements to continue bringing memorable moments on the golf course. However, at present, Mcilroy’s decision has put an end to the chance of reuniting the duo in New Orleans.

Conclude

The decision to refuse to return to Zurich Classic of Rory Mcilroy marked a unfortunate turning point in the relationship between him and Shane Lowry. While Mcilroy focuses on personal goals, Lowry and fans will face a Zurich Classic without one of the brightest stars. This year’s tournament promises to be attractive, but the glory from the victory of Mcilroy and Lowry last year will probably be difficult to be recreated.