Shane Lowry accepts two-shot penalty at The Open to avoid social media backlash

Irish golfer Shane Lowry accepted a two-stroke penalty at The Open Championship to avoid criticism on social media. The penalty was for his ball moving during a practice swing. Lowry, who won the tournament in 2019, expressed disappointment at the lack of camera angles showing the incident. Despite the setback, he remained focused on continuing to compete in the tournament.

Olofofo

Jul 19, 2025 - 21:08

0 0

Shane Lowry accepts two-shot penalty at The Open to avoid social media backlash

Irish golfer Shane Lowry received a two-stroke penalty at The Open Championship and feared backlash on social media if he didn't accept it. The incident occurred during the 12th hole of his second round when his ball moved after his club touched nearby foliage. The R&A ruled that the ball moved and imposed the penalty, causing Lowry's score to go from two-under to even-par. Lowry accepted the penalty despite uncertainty, stating he couldn't risk being labeled a cheat. His playing partner, Scottie Scheffler, sympathized with the situation but refrained from commenting on the ruling. Former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley suggested more flexibility in applying such penalties. Lowry finished one shot above the cut line and remains optimistic about the weekend.