With the 2023 Ryder Cup a month away, we now have a clearer idea as to what the European and American teams will look like.
The likes of Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and Viktor Hovland have already sealed their spots on the European team, with three automatic qualifying spots still up for grabs. Tyrrell Hatton is all but certain to get the fourth position, with Tommy Fleetwood and Robert MacIntyre next in line, with Matt Fitzpatrick currently in seventh.
Unfortunately, Shane Lowry's chances of earning an automatic spot are over. He played in the Czech Masters last week in a bid to vault up the rankings, only to miss the cut. He will now be depending on a captain's pick from Luke Donald if he is to make the team in Rome.
The Offaly man has displayed some very inconsistent form over the last few months, with some feeling his place in the team could be in jeopardy as a result.
Luke Donald comments ease Shane Lowry Ryder Cup concerns
Luke Donald has some big decisions to make when it comes to his six Ryder Cup captain's picks.
However, with Shane Lowry in tenth position on the European points list and in eighth on the world list, he has surely done enough to make the cut.
Considering comments made by the Englishman earlier this month, that seems to be the case.
Speaking on the Beyond the Clubhouse podcast, Luke Donald was full of praise for what the Irishman could bring to the team and downplayed fears about his lack of form.
Shane brings a lot to the team room. I think he’s a great energy, he absolutely loved the experience of Whistling Straits despite the result, which I think shows a lot.
Obviously, winning is important, but he enjoyed what the Ryder Cup is about. It’s coming together as a team unit. He’s someone that loves having people around them, sharing stories, all that kind of thing, a little bit like Sergio (Garcia)...
On his game, actually, it fell off a little bit three or four months ago, struggling a little bit on the greens. Steadily, he’s been a lot better. He’s starting to play some really good golf. He’s had some good performances in the Majors.
Again, I’ve played quite a few practice rounds with him in tournaments and his game looks really solid to be honest. I wouldn’t have any worries about where he is with this game and I think he’s in a good spot.
Shane Lowry opted not to play in the Omega European Masters in Switzerland later this week, perhaps pointing to the fact the he feels his team in the European Ryder Cup team is already sealed. He certainly deserves the spot for his play over the last couple of years.
Having impressed in the last edition and possessing a very good matchplay record, we're looking forward to seeing what he can do in Rome.
SEE ALSO: 2023 Ryder Cup Standings - Where Team Europe Stands One Week From The Team Naming
