Shane Lowry ready to go pro after win in Ireland

Shock Irish Open champion Shane Lowry woke up this today facing the biggest decision of his golfing life.

The 22-year-old is considering whether to turn professional after beating Robert Rock on the third play-off hole at Baltray to became only the third amateur to win a European Tour event.

Lowry missed a chance to win in regulation play when he missed a four-foot putt at the 18th and finished 17 under alongside Rock, both men closing with rounds of 71.

The two players returned to the 18th tee and recorded pars and then birdies at the second play-off hole before England's Rock bogeyed the hole at the third attempt.

As an amateur, Lowry could not accept the £440,000, which went to Rock.

Lowry is in the squad from which the team to play America in the Walker Cup in September will be selected by skipper Colin Dalgleish.

"I am going to have to think about it," said the plus five handicapper.

"I am sure I will have a call from Colin and I will have to speak to other people to see what they think. But I'd be mad not to consider going pro."