Defending champion Shane Lowry turns air blue at Portrush with foul-mouthed outburst

Shane Lowry was heard swearing on live TV during the second round of The Open at Royal Portrush, with Sky Sports forced to apologise for the language

Sky Sports had to issue a swift apology after Shane Lowry was overheard using explicit language during the second day of the 153rd Open.

In the pouring rain at Royal Portrush’s 11th tee, Lowry’s frustration was clear as he hit his tee shot into the left rough and exclaimed “No, don’t go left, f*** off,” followed by a muttered “f*** this place” as the microphone was quickly turned away.

Commentator Ewan Murray promptly apologised for the slip in language, saying: “Sorry about the language slipping through there,” and then expressed understanding for Lowry’s situation as he faced a sudden downpour just as he was about to play his shot, reports the Irish Mirror.

At that moment, Lowry was two under par. He had to contend with a difficult second shot from the rough and needed an up-and-down to maintain his par.

Lowry’s frustration marks a stark contrast to the cheerful demeanour he displayed before the tournament began, although it’s consistent with his reactions throughout the major season.

The Offaly golfer had previously been heard cursing “f*** this place” during the PGA Championship in May.

Having triumphed at Royal Portrush in 2019, Lowry is determined to regain his composure, make the cut, and tackle the course again on Saturday.