Golf

Tom McKibbin hoping to finish off year on a high in South Africa

Shane Lowry commits to 2025 Irish Open appearance

Tom McKibbin will join a number of established Ryder Cup stars and other young hopefuls in the three-day match-play event at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort, from January 10 to 12.
Tom McKibbin will conclude his 2024 season at the Alfred Dunhill Championship in South Africa

PGA Tour bound Tom McKibbin has his sights set on claiming his second DP World Tour title this week as he wraps up 2024 at the Alfred Dunhill Championship.

The Holywood golfer registered nine top tens on last season’s Race to Dubai, including a runner-up finish in Italy, while he played his first Major Championship at the US Open, before going on to feature at The Open.

It was his consistency across the campaign that enabled him to secure dual membership status for 2025, with a birdie on the final hole of the season-ending DP World Tour Championship last month securing him the tenth and final PGA TOUR card via the Race to Dubai Rankings.

After returning to action last week at the Nedbank Golf Challenge, the 21-year-old now makes his 27th and final start of the year.

“I’d love to finish the year on a high and try and get another win,” said Tom.

“But I am just out here to try and enjoy the week, have a nice time here at what is a special place and just enjoy what this week is and have fun.”

Meanwhile, past champion Shane Lowry will tee it up at The K Club next year when the Amgen Irish Open’s return to the County Kildare venue from September 4-7, 2025.

Lowry, who made history when he won the title on his debut appearance as an amateur in 2009, will be making his 17th consecutive appearance in the island of Ireland’s national open when the tournament returns to The K Club in 2025.

“There’s no better feeling than playing on home soil and I’m already so excited for next year’s Amgen Irish Open,” said Lowry, who finished in a share of third at The K Club in 2023.

“I say it all the time, but the Irish fans truly are the best in the world. They are incredibly welcoming and respectful of all the golfers taking part in the tournament, not just those from Ireland.

“I’ve had some strong performances in the event over the last few years and would love nothing more than to get my hands on that trophy again.”