Lowry aims for Ryder Cup spot after Open victory

Lowry & # 39; s Open victory brings him to 17th in the world rankings

Newly crowned Open champion Shane Lowry says his main goal is to secure a place in next year's Ryder Cup team.

The 32-year-old became the fifth Irishman to lift the Claret Jug after triumphing at Royal Portrush on Sunday.

The win gives the Clara native 10 and five-year exemptions for the European and PGA Tours respectively.

However, Lowry maintains that his plan for the next 12 months is to seal his place for the biennial event to be held in Wisconsin in 2020.

"Of course, I will enjoy this in the short term, there is no doubt about it," Lowry said after winning a six-fold victory over Tommy Fleetwood.

"But in the long run you clearly want to support your success."

"My big goal remains the same and that is on the plane to Whistling Straits next year. That is my plan for the next 12 months. Hopefully this means a few victories."

The European qualification for the Ryder Cup does not start until September and Lowry is determined to make his debut under Captain Padraig Harrington, who greeted him on Sunday evening on the 18th green.

Europe will travel to Whistling Straits to keep the trophy after their resounding victory of 17.5-10.5 over the United States at Le Golf National in 2018.