Shane Lowry has confirmed that Rory McIlroy, fresh off his career Grand Slam win at Augusta National, will return to the United States next week to defend their Zurich Classic of New Orleans title.
McIlroy, who skipped this week’s RBC Heritage event, is set to partner with Lowry in the team tournament, which begins on Thursday.
Speaking to Golfweek, Lowry expressed his understanding of McIlroy’s position following his historic Masters victory.
“I didn’t want him to feel like he had to play because of me. He’s not letting me down if he wanted to take some time. But he feels like he wants to get back out there,” Lowry said.
Last year, the duo triumphed in Louisiana by defeating Chad Ramey and Martin Trainer in a thrilling play-off. Following the Zurich Classic, McIlroy will participate in the Truist Championship in Philadelphia from May 8–11, before heading to Quail Hollow for the US PGA Championship on May 15.
The North Carolina course is a favorite for McIlroy, where he has secured four PGA Tour victories in the past.
The 35-year-old Northern Irishman aims to win his third US PGA title, having previously claimed the trophy in 2012 and 2014.
