Blessed are the peacemakers, especially when they intervene during a car park fracas that might be injurious to the dignity of all involved. Last week, that award went to golfer Shane Lowry, whose calming presence during a heated exchange at the Ryder Cup demonstrated an enviable sang-froid; for Lowry it was who stepped in as the red mist descended on Rory McIlroy as he berated Jim “Bones” Mackay following an earlier incident with another opponent’s caddie. Lowry drew on the Offaly equivalent of “Leave it, Rory, he’s not worth it”, and bundled McIlroy into a car, thereby ensuring the spotlight remained on Europe’s decisive win over America in Rome. To the joy of the home team, no reverse “Miracle at Medinah” materialised.
McIlroy had previously had a dust-up with US player Patrick Cantlay’s caddie, Joe LaCava, on the course’s final holes. McIlroy accused LaCava of unsportsmanlike behaviour for cheering a Cantlay putt while McIlroy was mustering concentration for his turn. He also claimed LaCava obstructed his line of vision. McIlroy is a notably emotional golfer who has struggled with his form in majors; his opposition to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf league has proved painful to him, morally and financially, and so bad manners on the course doubtless have an extra resonance. To counter the distress all these problems cause, he calls upon authorities higher even than Lowry.
