Shane Lowry made a significant equipment change ahead of the PGA Championship, switching putters to address his putting frustrations. The adjustment paid off handsomely as Lowry delivered a stellar performance at Valhalla, firing a 9-under 62 to tie a major championship record.
Lowry's flawless putting display included nine birdies, with six of them coming from putts of 13 feet or longer. This exceptional round propelled the Irishman to 13-under, positioning him just two shots behind the co-leaders heading into the final round.
Despite his remarkable performance, Lowry felt he missed an opportunity to go even lower, particularly on the par-5s where he parred both holes on the back nine. His near-miss at a birdie on the 18th hole left him just shy of potentially carding a historic 61 in major championship play.
Lowry's resurgence came after a disappointing start to the tournament with two 2-over rounds. A crucial adjustment to his alignment during a range session with his coach on Friday helped him find his form and set the stage for his record-tying round on Saturday.
Throughout his round, Lowry displayed a mix of precision and composure, highlighted by a series of long birdie putts and a near-eagle on the seventh hole. Despite the temptation to take risks, Lowry opted for a conservative approach on the 18th hole to secure his position in contention for a second major title.
Lowry's performance underscores his growing confidence and ability to excel in major championships. His strategic decision-making and exceptional putting skills have positioned him as a formidable contender as he heads into the final round of the PGA Championship.
Lowry's record-tying round adds to the recent trend of low scores in major championships, reflecting the heightened level of competition and skill among top players. As Lowry remains focused on his putting prowess, he emerges as a significant threat in the quest for major championship glory.
With his eyes set on the title, Lowry's impressive display at Valhalla cements his status as a player to watch in the final round of the PGA Championship.
