Shane Lowry says he would like the Open to return to Royal Portrush “next year” after an “incredible” week of support.
Irishman Lowry won the Open when it was last played in Northern Ireland in 2019 but could not replicate that success in this year’s tournament.
Lowry said he would like to see the tournament return to Portrush and feels that Portmarnock would be “amazing” if the Open was to be played in the Republic of Ireland for the first time.
“The feedback from the players involved has been about how much they have loved this tournament and venue,” he said on Portrush.
“As regards to Portmarnock, I’ve heard it might go there and it would be amazing as it’s only 30 minutes from my house.
“I think it’s one of the best golf courses in the world and it’s good enough to host the Open. Hopefully it will soon.”
It had been a frustrating week on the course for Lowry, who dropped out of contention and had to battle to make the cut after he was handed a two-stroke penalty for moving his ball on a practice swing.
That led the 38-year-old to say he wasn’t a “cheat”, and his then struggled further on Saturday with illness.
However, a closing 66 meant he left Royal Portrush with a smile on his face and he will turn his attention to the FedEx Cup play-offs and the Ryder Cup in New York in September.
“The crowds were amazing. They got behind me the whole day and it was probably one of the most enjoyable rounds of golf I’ve had in a while.
“I’ll drive down the road a little bit happier than I would have been.
“It’s still a week where I put a lot into it but didn’t get a lot out of it. Onwards and upwards I suppose.”