Shane Lowry happily embraces Rory McIlroy after Masters win despite earlier rant

Shane Lowry was one of the first to congratulate Rory McIlroy after he won the Masters on Sunday — greeting him with a hug just as fast as the media greeted Lowry with questions about McIlroy a day prior.The two longtime friends embraced after McIlroy sunk a putt to win the sudden-death playoff against Justin Rose.McIlroy was crying fresh tears of joy while Lowry was all smiles and lifted up his soon-to-be green-jacketed friend in triumph.On Saturday, Lowry shot a solid 16 holes before recording bogeys on 17 and 18.Rather than questions about his play, though, he was met with questions surrounding McIlroy and his potential path to winning the tournament.“I’m not going to stand here and talk about Rory for 10 minutes,’’ an agitated Lowry said after the third round.

“I’m trying to win the tournament, as well.I know that’s what y’all want me to talk about, but I’ve just had a s–t finish, I’ve got a chance to win the Masters tomorrow, and I’m going to go hit some balls.”Lowry also dug in on the overall format of media speaking with players after events.“I’m going to go,’’ Lowry said.

“I think we need time.I think I need a half an hour now to sit there and gather my thoughts.

I can’t be coming to talk to you guys straightaway.It shouldn’t be happening.

I don’t agree with it.”While he was fed up on Saturday, Lowry’s excitement after McIlroy’s victory proved that the incident stemmed from nothing personal toward his friend.Lowry finished the tournament tied for 42nd. As for his good friend, McIlroy’s up-and-down Masters finished in glory with a career Grand Slam.With a chance to win it all McIlroy missed his putt, but the Northern Irishman redeemed himself in the playoff against Rose, shooting three to his opponent’s four.

...