Lowry claims dramatic BMW PGA Championship triumph

Shane Lowry became a two-time Rolex Series winner after edging out Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm to end his wait for a BMW PGA Championship victory after an action-packed final day at Wentworth Club.

Following the cancellation of play on Friday, after the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the tournament was reduced to 54 holes and the Irishman played them flawlessly, avoiding a single dropped shot all week at the prestigious Surrey venue.

A birdie at the last meant he posted a final round 65 and a 17 under total, but he faced an anxious wait as McIlroy, in the group behind, gave himself an eagle putt at the 18th which would have forced a play-off with his close friend Lowry.

“It means a lot,” said Lowry.

“It’s been a good year but felt like I’ve been close a few times and felt like I’ve only got a few tournaments left this season and wanted to try and win one, and obviously this one is right up at the top the list.

“I love it here and I’ve contended in the past, and even going down the back nine today, I was like, the bad shots that I’ve hit over the years in contention actually started to creep into my head and it’s amazing what this game does. I’m so happy. Honestly words can’t put into how happy I am, how much this means to me and how much I love this tour and how much I love this tournament. I’m the happiest man in the world right now.”

McIlroy’s 23-foot effort just stayed above ground, though, meaning the Northern Irishman signed for a 67, finishing a shot back on 16 under.

That handed Lowry his first victory in a tournament that means so much to him, in the first week of qualification for the European Ryder Cup team in 2023. The triumph moved the 2019 Open Champion to fifth in the DP World Tour Rankings presented by Rolex.

Rahm, meanwhile, carded a stunning ten under 62 earlier in the day to lay down the gauntlet to the overnight leaders, but settled for a share of second place alongside his Ryder Cup team-mate McIlroy.

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