The 2024 Zurich Classic is the first edition of the event to feature Rory McIlroy. After making his debut at the event will fellow Irishman Shane Lowry, the duo seem to be having a decent outing at the Zurich Classic. However, one of their strategies in Round 3 received criticism from a lead analyst.

The lead analyst in question is Trevor Immelman. He questioned Lowry’s strategy of using a 3-wood instead of a driver for a tee shot in Round 3. Immleman said this decision baffled him. He said:

“This baffles me. I think you gotta go one way or the other. This brings the skinniest part [of the fairway] in, I think.”

Lowry’s decision did not pay him any dividends as he hit the ball straight into the water. Immleman said that this play was a really bad play. He added if the idea was to layup, then that should have happened. He further said this to be a bad decision and play. He added:

“That is a really, really bad play right there,” Immelman said. “I mean if you’re going to lay up, layup. That was a bad decision and a bad play.”

Overall, Immleman also felt Rory McIlroy would have been a better choice for the long drive. However, what had to happen did happen. Currently, McIlroy and Lowry are in third place on the leaderboard with 8-under 63, and have a good chance of winning the competition.

Shane Lowry spoke about Rory McIlroy and his poor start to Round 3

Ahead of Round 3, Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry were leading at the Zurich Classic 2024. Many felt that this lead would be something they would carry till the end of the competition, and eventually win it. However, that didn’t happen and the duo slipped to third position.

A questionable strategy and a poor start to the third round led to a significant drop. In the first eight holes, the Irishmen were only able to score two birdies. However, on the ninth hole, McIlroy was able to make up for the poor start with a birdie. Reflecting on the performance, Lowry said:

“We did get off to a slow start. Then Rory McIlroy turned up on the ninth hole and it was all him from there on. And I was just kind of enjoying the ride.”