Jon Rahm and Shane Lowry Return with Difficulties at the Spanish Open
The return of Jon Rahm and Shane Lowry to competition after their outstanding performance in the Ryder Cup was not as expected. Both golfers, key figures in the European victory, faced challenges at the Spanish Open, with Rahm experiencing a tense moment with a marshal. Rahm, visibly frustrated after a shot, had an exchange with a marshal who tried to cheer him up. After his drive ended up in the rough on the 8th hole, Rahm expressed his discontent with his situation on the course.The marshal tried to console him, but Rahm responded forcefully. Despite achieving a par on that hole, Rahm closed his round with a 72 (+1), including an eagle and only one birdie. Lowry, who sealed the European victory in the Ryder Cup, also struggled, finishing his first round with a 75 (+4), with six bogeys and two birdies. Marco Penge and Frederic Lacroix led the leaderboard with rounds of 66 (-5). Rahm seeks his fourth title at the Spanish Open, which would make him the most successful golfer in the tournament since the creation of the European circuit in 1972, surpassing Seve Ballesteros. The tournament offers for the first time an automatic spot in next year’s Masters and Open Championship to the winner. Carlos Alcaraz, number one in world tennis, was present following Rahm during the first round.“What a day, what a day,” Rahm said, followed by an expression of frustration.
Jon Rahm
