McIlroy, the world number three, used new equipment – in drivers and fairway woods – at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill in Orlando, Florida, but spent too much time playing from the rough in a tournament won by Russell Henley, who closed with a 70 for 277 to win by a stroke from overnight leader Collin Morikawa.

Lowry began the day with a two-shot advantage, but struggled to an error-strewn 76 at Bay Hill which left him at four under par.

Shane Lowry has outlined how difficult it is to beat an in-form Rory McIlroy after their recent duel at Pebble Beach whilst also adding he hopes to play in the Ryder Cup later this year