High-Stakes Drama at Royal Portrush

By Andy Gray & Jonathan Bradley
BBC Sport NI at The Open Championship
Updated: 1 hour ago

2019 Champion faces rules controversy at historic venue

The Incident That Changed the Round

World No. 18 Shane Lowry found himself at the center of a rules storm during Friday’s second round, receiving a two-stroke penalty after officials ruled his practice swing caused ball movement at the par-4 12th. The 2019 Claret Jug winner vehemently denied intentionally influencing play:

"I was focused on my pre-shot routine – if I’d seen any movement, I’d have self-reported immediately," Lowry stated. "The R&A’s reliance on limited camera angles leaves me frustrated. This isn’t about avoiding punishment; it’s about fairness in officiating."

Cut Line Tension Mounts

The penalty created immediate tournament consequences:

• Score adjustment: -2 → Even par (T34)
• Cut line proximity: +1 over projected mark
• Leader deficit: 10 strokes behind Scheffler

Lowry’s response proved championship-caliber: "I channeled that anger into birdieing 15. Making the weekend by one stroke? That’s golf’s brutal beauty."

Scheffler’s Candid Take

Playing partner and world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler acknowledged the complexity:

"In thick rough, millimeter movements are tough to judge. The video review looked inconclusive to me. What’s clear? Shane handled it with class – nobody wants the ’cheat’ label in our sport."

Technology vs Tradition Debate

The incident reignited ongoing discussions:

1. Camera coverage limitations at non-stadium holes
2. Player integrity vs officiating technology
3. Rule 9.4 interpretation (ball at rest)

R&A officials confirmed using all available footage but acknowledged "no perfect angle" existed.

Historical Context

Royal Portrush continues delivering drama:

• 2019: Lowry’s emotional maiden major win
• 2024: Rules controversy on same course
• Only Northern Ireland venue in Open rotation

What’s Next

Lowry begins moving day at 8:42 AM local time, needing a low round to re-enter contention. The penalty discussion continues across practice greens and social media.