At the TPC Louisiana 19th green stage, Rory McIlroy stands with a beer in one hand and a microphone in the other, alongside his friend Shane Lowry. The rowdy New Orleans crowd chants, “Rory! Rory! Rory!”
The bandleader asks if they know any songs from the 80s, and Journey begins to play. McIlroy enthusiastically sings “Don’t Stop Believing,” with Lowry laughing and watching. As they walk off, Lowry jokes that he would have sung better.
McIlroy, a four-time major champion, just won a golf tournament, fulfilling a need for fun that goes beyond the scorecard.
This is not a drill. Rory McIlroy singing Don’t Stop Believing pic.twitter.com/y5PkEDoqo4
— Brody Miller (@BrodyAMiller) April 28, 2024
After a “really drunken lunch” post-Ryder Cup win, McIlroy and Lowry decided to team up for the Zurich Classic. This decision led to a week of fun and camaraderie in New Orleans.
On Saturday night, they received a standing ovation at a local restaurant, a rare occurrence even during bustling events like Jazz Fest and NFL Draft week.
Despite a challenging season, McIlroy found solace in this week of light-hearted enjoyment with his friend. The tournament culminated in a victory for McIlroy, with Lowry by his side, demonstrating the power of teamwork and friendship.
Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry chased down Chad Ramey and Martin Trainer on Sunday in the Zurich Classic. (Stephen Lew / USA Today)
McIlroy’s win not only secured a title but also provided a much-needed break from the usual stress and pressure of professional golf. As the event concluded, organizers eagerly anticipated McIlroy’s return for next year’s tournament.
“I don’t think they need to try,” McIlroy affirmed. “I think we’re coming back.”
(Top photo: Chris Graythen / Getty Images)