A Change in Direction
Professional golfer Shane Lowry has confirmed he has parted ways with his caddie, Darren Reynolds, following a disappointing run of form on the PGA Tour. The decision comes immediately after Lowry missed the cut at last week’s U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, marking a low point in a four-month stretch without a top-20 finish.
According to reports from Golfweek, the 39-year-old Irishman has enlisted the services of his former long-time caddie, Dermot Byrne, on a temporary basis for this week’s Travelers Championship. Lowry, currently ranked 45th in the world, stated that he is using this week to evaluate his long-term options as he looks to regain the consistency that saw him ranked 26th earlier this year.
The Stakes for 2027
The timing of the split reflects the mounting pressure Lowry faces as he looks toward the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor. With 15 months remaining until the tournament, the 2019 Open champion is keen to address his performance issues. Lowry’s recent results have been inconsistent, with a tie for 44th at the PGA Championship and a tie for 30th at The Masters failing to provide the momentum he needs.
Byrne, a veteran caddie who previously worked with Lowry during his early professional career and his 2015 WGC-Bridgestone Invitational victory, provides a familiar presence during this period of transition. Reynolds, who had been on Lowry’s bag since early 2024, notably supported the Irishman during his winning putt at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage.
Broader PGA Tour Shifts
The move is part of a wider trend of personnel changes on the tour this week. Other notable shifts include John Ellis stepping in for Chris Gotterup at the Travelers Championship, and various caddie adjustments as players look to optimize their teams ahead of the season’s final signature events.