Shane Lowry hailed the Horizon Irish Open as "one of the greatest events in the world" after the home favourite finished in a tie for third.
Major Champion Lowry was roared on by huge crowds all week at The K Club, and he treated his adoring fans to some wonderful golf in the final round, carding an eagle, four birdies and two bogeys in a closing 68 to finish two shots behind winner Vincent Norrman.
The Irishman, who won his home open as an amateur in 2009, heaped praise on the tournament.
He said: "It's been a great week. Everybody here at The K Club has done an unbelievable job.
"The course is amazing. Weather was great. We had a bit of a storm this afternoon but the crowds were incredible. It's one of the best Irish Opens I can remember.
"I think the Irish Open is one of the greatest events in the world, and I'm obviously biased!
"I really enjoyed my week."
Despite missing out on the title, Lowry sees the week as a "step in the right direction" as he looks forward to defending his BMW PGA Championship crown when the Rolex Series returns next week.
He added: "All in all, it's been a good week for me and a step in the right direction, and I'll be back to defend my title at Wentworth next week, which is exciting as well.
"Like I said at the start of the week, I have an exciting month of golf ahead of me."
