McDowell Mounts Challenge, Falls Short at LIV Golf Event
Weather Delays and a Missed Putt Deny Veteran a Comeback Win
A late surge from veteran golfer Paul McDowell was ultimately derailed by inclement weather and a crucial missed putt on Sunday, as he finished just behind leader **Joaquin Niemann** at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club. The 45-year-old’s strong performance signals a potential return to form after a period of inconsistent play.
Late Charge Hampered by Rain
McDowell finished with a bogey-free round of 66, highlighted by five birdies, but his momentum was repeatedly interrupted by significant weather delays. Heavy rainfall forced pauses in play, making it difficult to maintain focus and rhythm. After securing a birdie on the 17th hole, he had a chance to tie **Niemann**’s leading score on the final green, but his attempt narrowly missed to the left.
“I’m happy with the fight. It was tough to keep the momentum going with the breaks. I just asked **Joaco [Niemann]**’s caddie what they did in the second break because whatever they did was good,” McDowell explained after his round.
“It’s hard to play loose when you need it, when you kind of haven’t been there for a while. But I was really happy the way I composed myself generally today. Drove the ball great. I felt pretty comfortable out there.”
—Paul McDowell, Golfer
The challenges of performing under pressure after a slump are well-documented; a recent study by the Sports Psychology Journal found that 68% of professional athletes experience performance anxiety after a period of poor results. Sports Psychology Journal
Looking Ahead to a Busy Summer
Despite the near miss, McDowell expressed optimism about his future prospects. He acknowledged his recent struggles on the LIV Golf tour and views this performance as a positive step forward. He hopes to build on this momentum throughout the upcoming summer season.
“Hopefully a big summer ahead, and like I said in the presser, [I’ve] been so disappointed with my general performance on LIV this to point, this is what I expect of myself still. Really nice to get the juices flowing a little bit. I’m super excited about the week.”
McDowell’s strong showing suggests he is regaining the form that made him a four-time Ryder Cup player, and he’s determined to make a significant impact on the LIV Golf circuit in the months to come.
