Three-time Open champion Gary Player believes Shane Lowry's win at Royal Portrush was one of the greatest he's ever seen.

The Offaly man secured the Claret Jug - and his first major title - with a six-shot victory from Tommy Fleetwood at Royal Portrush yesterday.

Player feels the occasion was made all the more special by Lowry winning golf's oldest major on Irish soil.

"That was one of the greatest victories I've ever seen in a championship and how appropriate to win in front of all those enthusiastic fans," he told Sky Sports News.

"He was remarkable and they had the biggest crowds I've ever seen at The Open. It was just one of the happiest days and for Shane Lowry to win in front of his own people, what a performance! I got very, very excited and quite choked up in fact.

"This was my 64th Open that I've attended, so I've seen a lot of Opens all over the country, and I would have to say, even though I didn't participate, it was one of the most successful Opens ever.

"I played there a month ago and it's one of the greatest golf courses I've ever played. To the R&A, well done, what a performance, what an Open. Golf is going from strength to strength and they are doing so much around the world. It's wonderful to see how they help young people. It's very, very exciting for me."