McIlroy Shines in Opening Round of Scottish Open Title Defence.

Golf General

McIlroy Shines in Opening Round of Scottish Open Title Defence.

Rory McIlroy bounced back from his US Open disappointment with a strong start to his Scottish Open title defense.

Rory McIlroy made a statement in his first appearance since a late collapse at Pinehurst a month ago prolonged his 10-year major drought. 

The Northern Irishman dazzled at the Renaissance Club, recording an eagle and five birdies in a brilliant five-under 65. 

This impressive performance left McIlroy just one shot behind clubhouse leaders Max Kieffer and Haotong Li, who both bogeyed the final hole.

Joining McIlroy in contention are Tommy Fleetwood and Daniel Brown, who both enjoyed bogey-free rounds. 

Scotland's Robert MacIntyre, last year's runner-up, is also in the mix with a solid three-under round.