This week, Rory McIlroy returns to his roots at Royal County Down, aiming for victory in the 2024 Amgen Irish Open.
The four-time major champion hails from Holywood, County Down, located just an hour from the prestigious golf course in Newcastle.
This year, McIlroy and his close friend Shane Lowry are set to be the standout performers at the Royal County Down, one of the most prestigious events on the DP World Tour.
The Irish Open consistently draws attention, having seen numerous notable champions over the years.
Both McIlroy and Lowry have previously claimed Irish Open titles, with other recent champions including Jon Rahm, Paul Casey, and Sergio Garcia.
Irish Open 2024: Dates and Viewing Information
The tournament runs from Thursday, September 12, to Sunday, September 15.
This iconic event takes place on the Championship Links Course at Royal County Down Golf Club in Newcastle, Northern Ireland.
Royal County Down is renowned for hosting prestigious tournaments such as the Senior Open, the Amateur Championship, the Curtis Cup, and the Walker Cup.
Ranked the top golf course in the world by Golf Digest in their 2024 list of the World’s 100 Greatest Courses, it promises an exceptional challenge.
Playing to a par 71, the course will stretch to a maximum of 7,186 yards for the 2024 Irish Open.
Play will commence at 7:30 AM for the opening rounds, with weekend action beginning at 9 AM.
Fans can follow updates from County Down throughout the week on talkSPORT.
To listen live, visit HERE for the live stream.
You can also tune in via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, smart speakers, and on 1089 or 1053 AM.
Live coverage will also be provided by Sky Sports Golf throughout the tournament, available here.
Irish Open 2024: Participants and Leaderboard
Local favorites McIlroy and Lowry lead the impressive field, both having previously claimed this title.
McIlroy’s victory came in 2016 at The K Club, while Lowry won as an amateur in 2009 at County Louth.
Another competitor to watch is Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre, who has enjoyed a breakout year on the PGA Tour, securing two significant victories, including the Scottish Open in July.
Joining them will be Seamus Power, Erik van Rooyen, Guido Migliozzi, Nicolai Hojgaard, Ryan Fox, and Padraig Harrington.
The complete list of participants, tee times, and pairings can be found here.
McIlroy’s first round is scheduled to start at 1 PM, and he will be paired with Tom McKibbin and Vincent Norrman.
For the latest leaderboard updates from County Down, visit here once play begins.
Irish Open 2024: Statements from Players
McIlroy expressed, “Playing in the Irish Open has held special significance for me since my first appearance nearly 20 years ago, and this year will be even more meaningful.
“I am thrilled to play in this year’s Irish Open at a course so close to my heart. Royal County Down has such an outstanding reputation, and I fondly remember my experiences from the 2007 Walker Cup.
“The support from the crowds for Irish golfers is unmatched, creating an atmosphere that is unique to any other tournament. Time and again, the fans demonstrate they are among the best in the world, and I can’t wait to see them supporting us again.”
MacIntyre added, “I’m eagerly looking forward to returning to the Irish Open.
“It has been a fantastic season thus far, and winning another historic national open would mean a great deal to me.
“I’ve never had the chance to play at Royal County Down before, and I’ve heard so many wonderful things about it, so I’m genuinely excited for the week ahead.”
https://talksport.com/sport/2033573/irish-open-2024-players-leaderboard-tee-times-schedule-mcilroy/