Shane Lowry and Brooks Koepka found themselves paired together at the 2024 Zurich Classic of New Orleans after both entered the tournament as individual competitors in a team format that requires two-player squads. The PGA Tour event, held at TPC Louisiana from April 25–28, 2024, uses a modified alternate-shot and best-ball format over four days, making partner chemistry a critical factor in performance.
Although neither golfer had previously committed to playing together, tournament rules allowed late entries to form teams on-site if both players were registered as singles. According to PGA Tour officials, Lowry and Koepka opted to combine forces after meeting in the player lounge during practice rounds, citing mutual respect for each other’s game and a shared desire to test their skills in a less conventional, team-oriented setting.
The decision was confirmed by the PGA Tour’s official entry list, which showed both players listed as a team under the name “Lowry/Koepka” in the two-player competition field. This pairing brought together two major champions: Lowry, the 2019 Open Champion, and Koepka, a four-time major winner with victories at the U.S. Open and PGA Championship.
How the Partnership Came Together
Neither Lowry nor Koepka had announced plans to play the Zurich Classic as a team prior to arriving in New Orleans. Although, both were entered as individual players, which under PGA Tour regulations allows for last-minute team formation if both parties agree and submit the proper documentation before the deadline.
According to a PGA Tour field report published April 24, 2024, the Lowry/Koepka team was officially registered late in the entry period, confirming their decision to play together was made days before the first round. The report noted that several other high-profile singles, including Jon Rahm and Scottie Scheffler, likewise formed teams on-site.
In a tweet from his verified account on April 24, 2024, Lowry wrote: “Had a great chat with Brooks on the range today. Decided to team up for Zurich — should be fun. Two major champs trying something different.” Koepka later replied, sharing the post and adding: “Let’s see what we can do. Alternate shot suits my game.”
On-Course Dynamics and Early Performance
During the opening round, the Lowry/Koepka pairing demonstrated strong communication and complementary styles. Lowry, known for his steady ball-striking and putting, handled the longer approach shots, while Koepka’s power off the tee provided advantages on the par-5s and long par-4s at TPC Louisiana.
According to official PGA Tour statistics, the team recorded a 6-under-par 66 in the first round’s alternate-shot format, placing them in a tie for 12th after 18 holes. Their best-ball score in the second round improved to a 64, moving them into the top 10.
Analysts noted that the pairing worked particularly well due to their similar temperaments — both are known for being calm under pressure and preferring a low-key, businesslike approach to competition. Unlike some high-profile team pairings that struggle with ego or conflicting routines, Lowry and Koepka appeared to synchronize quickly.
Context Within the Zurich Classic Format
The Zurich Classic is unique on the PGA Tour schedule as the only official team event, offering FedEx Cup points to both players. Since its revival in 2017, the tournament has seen a mix of established duos and ad-hoc pairings, with varying degrees of success.
Past examples include Rory McIlroy and Ryan Palmer winning in 2019 and 2022, and Cameron Smith and Jonas Blixt capturing the title in 2017 and 2018. More recently, random pairings like Tony Finau and Cameron Young have contended, proving that chemistry can outweigh prior collaboration.
By choosing to team up, Lowry and Koepka joined a growing trend of elite singles using the Zurich Classic as an opportunity to experiment with new partnerships outside the usual individual stroke-play grind.
Their decision also highlights the event’s appeal as a lighter-stakes, yet still competitive, venue where players can enjoy the social aspect of golf while pursuing meaningful FedEx Cup implications.
As of the final round, the Lowry/Koepka team finished tied for 18th at 12-under-par, a solid result given their late-team formation and minimal preparation time together.
While they did not contend for the title, both players expressed satisfaction with the experience in post-round interviews. Koepka told reporters: “It was fun to get out there and just play golf with a solid guy. No pressure to be perfect — just see what happens.” Lowry added: “We made some good putts, had some laughs. Wouldn’t rule out doing it again.”
Looking ahead, neither golfer has announced plans to reunite for future team events, but the Zurich Classic remains open to such pairings. The 2025 edition is scheduled for late April at TPC Louisiana, with entry details expected to be released by the PGA Tour in early 2025.
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