IT WILL BE of scant consolation now but Shane Lowry’s brush with Major glory has seen him jump to 25th in the latest world rankings.
Leading by four shots heading into the final round at the US Open, the Offaly man’s challenge faded as he carded a 76 to finish in a tie for second.
While Lowry couldn’t hide his initial disappointment, his performance at Oakmont was hugely encouraging and certainly the improved ranking is a further reflection of his growing stature.
The 29-year-old jumps from 41st to 25th on the back of his highest ever finish at a Major, although it’s not a career best having reached 17th in November 2015.
Lowry vowed to learn from the experience and he will no doubt take confidence from the way he put himself in that position with three faultless rounds – the cheque for €660,758 is sure to help the healing process too.
Meanwhile, Dustin Johnson, who finally ended his long wait for a first Major, is back inside the world’s top three following his victory.
Johnson’s triumph sees him climb three places– moving above Rory McIlroy, Bubba Watson and Rickie Fowler – to equal his highest spot, achieved after his performance at last year’s US Open.
Jason Day remains world number one after finishing in a tie for eighth, while Jordan Spieth holds onto second place despite his nine-over for the tournament.
For McIlroy – who missed the cut in Pennsylvania – it is the first time he has been out of the top three since July 2014.
Meanwhile, Branden Grace and Sergio Garcia moved closer to the top 10 after sharing fifth place at Oakmont, the pair carding par scores after their four rounds.
