AVONDALE, La. — Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry have officially announced their return to the Zurich Classic this spring, signaling their intention to defend the title they claimed in 2024 during the PGA Tour’s only team competition, as per the tournament’s organizers on Thursday.

The Irish duo mounted a thrilling comeback in last year’s Zurich Classic, managing to level the score against Chad Ramey and Martin Trainer before ultimately securing victory in a dramatic playoff hole.

This win marked McIlroy’s inaugural visit to New Orleans, where both he and Lowry drew significant crowds at the TPC Louisiana, a course designed by Pete Dye.

Although it would have been surprising for either McIlroy, hailing from Northern Ireland, or Lowry from Ireland to forgo the chance to defend their title, event organizers were pleased to announce their commitment to the 2025 tournament as well.

McIlroy will be a central figure in the 2024 Zurich field, which is also set to feature the notable pairing of Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele. Tournament organizers anticipate record-breaking attendance of approximately 116,000 spectators throughout the event.

Earlier this month, McIlroy added to his achievements by claiming his 27th career PGA Tour title at Pebble Beach; Lowry followed closely behind, finishing in second place, just two shots off the lead.