I want to Master Augusta just like Rory

LOWRY AIMS TO EMULATE MCILROY FEAT

- By EAMON DOGGETT

SHANE LOWRY is dreaming of emulating Rory Mcllroy by winning the Masters as he sets his sights on the 2026 season.

The Offalyman was the hero of Europe's Ryder Cup triumph in September following another consistent year on the fairways.

But the 38-year-old is now looking for new challenges, with Augusta National in Georgia firmly on his mind.

Lowry had long wanted to become the first Irish golfer to win the Masters, only for McIlroy to beat him to it earlier this year.

It would, however, give him great satisfaction to receive a green jacket from his close friend.

He told RTE Sport: "I've always said to myself I want to be the first Irishman to win the Masters.

"That was always my goal in my head. Obviously, that can't be the case now.