Shane Lowry boosts Ryder Cup chances

Shane Lowry boosted his chances of automatic qualification for the European Ryder Cup team in September with his strong performance at the US Open.

Lowry led by four shots going into the final round, but had to settle for a share of second after shooting a 76 on Sunday.

Lowry has now closed the gap on Andy Sullivan, who has the last spot in the team through the World Points List.

Lowry admitted that the experience of Sunday in Pittsburgh would make him a stronger player in the long run.

“I always say it’s only a mistake if you don’t learn from it,” he said. “I’m sure I learned a lot from today and I don’t know what it is yet, but when I’m in that position again, and I know I will be, I’ll handle it probably a little better.”

The points will be a help to Lowry as he has decided to defend his WGC Bridgestone title at Firestone, which does not attract any qualifying points, as the European Tour refused to co-sanction it as it clashes with the centennial French Open.

Lowry also made the biggest transition in the European Tour’s Race to Dubai this week,  moving from 62nd to ninth position in the rankings to secure his spot in the season-ending DP World Tour Championship, Dubai taking place at Jumeirah Golf Estates from Thursday 17 to Sunday 20 November.

Sergio Garcia also improved his chances for an automatic Ryder Cup spot after finishing in a tie for fifth on Sunday. Still always the bridesmaid, and never the bride when it comes to Majors.

Garcia overtook Justin Rose to move into fourth in the World Points List and on course for what would be his eighth Ryder Cup appearance for Europe.

Lee Westwood also moved within two spots of the automatic qualification positions after finishing tied 32^nd.

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