Northern Ireland

'Thanks to the amazing crowds for the brilliant support' at The Open

England's Tommy Fleetwood described The Open at Royal Portrush as 'a spectacle for sport'. Picture by Niall Carson/PA Wire
England's Tommy Fleetwood described The Open at Royal Portrush as 'a spectacle for sport'. Picture by Niall Carson/PA Wire England's Tommy Fleetwood described The Open at Royal Portrush as 'a spectacle for sport'. Picture by Niall Carson/PA Wire

THERE has been no shortage of praise for Royal Portrush Golf Course following the culmination of more than a week of golfing action.

As the cheers rang out from the 18th green at the Co Antrim course as Shane Lowry lifted the Claret Jug, many of the golfers who competed against him were keen to hail the Co Antrim course.

And there was also much admiration for the golfing fans and the people of Portrush for "making it an unforgettable Open".

English golfer Tommy Fleetwood, who finished second in the tournament described it as "a spectacle for sport".

"Proud to be a part of it," he said.

"Many Congratulations to Shane Lowry, his family and his team on achieving a dream. Hopefully one day it can be me.

"Thank you everyone for your support always."

Last year's Open champion Francesco Molinari was also among those to sing the praises of an "incredible performance" by Lowry and Portrush.

"Enjoy every single minute of it, starting from the party tonight," he told the Offaly sportsman.

"Thanks to everyone in Portrush for making it an unforgettable Open for all the players and families."

Lee Westwood also described his enjoyment of playing at Royal Portrush.

"What a day. What a week," he said.

"The Open is the best week of the year. Thanks to the amazing crowds for the brilliant support.

"Well done the R&A and Royal Portrush for hosting."

Justin Rose, who last week was pictured enjoyed the hospitality in the Harbour Bar in Portrush, said he was already looking forward to returning to the town.

"Portrush hosted an incredible Open and I can’t wait to return for the next one," he said.

"Congratulations to a fitting winner Shane Lowry, you played awesome golf from start to finish, you made your country proud."

Former Master's champion, Danny Willett also thanked "the fans who've been awesome all week".

England's Lee Westwood (right) during day two of The Open Championship 2019 at Royal Portrush Golf Club. Picture by Richard Sellers/PA Wire
England's Lee Westwood (right) during day two of The Open Championship 2019 at Royal Portrush Golf Club. Picture by Richard Sellers/PA Wire England's Lee Westwood (right) during day two of The Open Championship 2019 at Royal Portrush Golf Club. Picture by Richard Sellers/PA Wire