Chronological coverage updated 12th September 2026 20:27.
Update 1 · 12th September 2026
Shane Lowry Masterclass Builds Four-Shot Lead at Irish Open
Shane Lowry produced a remarkable putting display at Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, County Clare, to take a commanding four-shot lead into the final round of the Irish Open. Building on his course-record 62 on Friday, the Irishman carded a five-under-par 65 to put himself on the brink of a first individual tournament victory since 2022.
Lowry's third round was defined by absolute precision on the greens, as he one-putted every single green on the back nine to maintain distance over the chasing pack.
BBC News reportedly quoted Shane Lowry (Irish Open tournament leader) as saying: “I'm normally the one watching other people do it, so why not me sometimes”.
BBC News reportedly quoted Shane Lowry (Irish Open tournament leader) as saying: “It's nice, I'm seeing my lines well and starting the ball where I want and they're going in and hopefully that stays that way for another 24 hours.”.
Pursuers Fall Back at Doonbeg
Denmark's Jacob Skov Olesen briefly caught Lowry on the leaderboard before a bogey at the final hole left him with a four-under 66 in second place. Chile's Joaquin Niemann matched Olesen's 66 to move into third spot on his own.
Former champions faded during the third round. Defending champion Rory McIlroy struggled to a two-over 74, while two-time winner Jon Rahm posted a 72, ending both players' chances of lifting the trophy. Play was also briefly interrupted during the day due to the arrival of US President Donald Trump as part of his two-day visit to Ireland.
- Shane Lowry one-putted every green on the back nine to shoot a third-round 65.
- Lowry holds a four-stroke advantage over second-placed Jacob Skov Olesen heading into Sunday.
- Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm are out of contention after high third-round scores.
