Late bogey strikes again for Lowry to extend difficult run

Had Shane Lowry won on the PGA Tour on Sunday, he would have received nothing like the attention and accolades that came his way.

- Ewan Murray

Instead, a horrible run from the 16" tee saw the Irishman concede a three-shot lead over the field. This grim, grisly finish at the Cognizant Classic saw Lowry crack two balls into alligator-invested waters. Only those with bricks for hearts would have felt no sympathy.

It was Lowry’s behaviour afterwards that drew such praise; he spoke candidly to the media, giving the explanation that his prime motivation was to win for the first time in front of his four-year-old daughter. In such a traumatic moment, Lowry emerged with great credit.

Lowry was spared media duties on day one here at Bay Hill. A closing bogey for a 74 meant it felt appropriate to spare him another round of questions. It would be wholly natural if Lowry, who has not won an individual event in the United States since 2015, is suffering a form of sporting hangover.