​Robert MacIntyre has admitted he’s pleased to have drawn Rory McIlroy and Chris Gotterup for the opening two rounds of the Scottish Open, joking that he may have one potential issue with his group. As one of the favorites to win at The Renaissance Club this week, MacIntyre is approaching the event with confidence, especially given that the highlight of his career so far came with his victory on this course in 2024.
The Scot is expected to have strong support from the North Berwick crowds, though there could be some divided loyalties among fans following his group on Thursday and Friday. The last three winners of the tournament have been grouped together, with McIlroy and Gotterup both returning to a venue that has already given them memorable moments. McIlroy produced one of the most iconic shots of his career on his way to victory in 2023, while Gotterup earned admirers last year for how he edged out the Northern Irishman in a tight battle.
Ahead of the opening round, MacIntyre spoke with the media about the prospect of playing alongside McIlroy and Gotterup, stressing that he was excited to tee it up with two of the world’s best players. “First time I played here, I think that was my first Scottish Open as well. It was my first one. I don’t mind being thrown in at the deep end, but that experience was a massive learning curve,” he said. “Now it just feels like another round of golf. The only difference is I’ll be hitting first all day because both of them hit it a mile.” He added with a smile, “No, look, it will be good fun. I enjoy both their company. So yeah, a good group.”
MacIntyre’s season has been solid so far, with three top-five finishes on the PGA Tour. His best result came when he tied for second at the Valero Texas Open, and he also secured a fourth-place finish at The Players Championship. While he is among the elite players who have yet to win a major, the big stage in majors is where many believe the Scotsman can make a significant breakthrough. Notably, three of his five top-10 finishes in major championships have occurred at The Open, underscoring his capability to perform on the world’s biggest stages.
If MacIntyre can produce a strong showing at the Scottish Open, he will carry that momentum into Royal Birkdale, where the next major awaits. The connection to previous victories at The Renaissance Club and the familiarity with a course that rewards strategic play could be a perfect setup for MacIntyre to build confidence ahead of the next major challenge. For fans and followers of his game, this week offers a clear opportunity to see MacIntyre translate his consistency on the PGA Tour into a major breakthrough, with a supportive crowd and a high-profile group providing both pressure and motivation in equal measure.