NORTH BERWICK, Scotland — In a stunning comeback at the Scottish Open, Rory McIlroy, the celebrated golfer from Northern Ireland, claimed victory with back-to-back birdies on Sunday, securing his first tour title since October by a single stroke.
It has been a challenging year for McIlroy, who has faced numerous trials and controversies, including the PGA Tour’s partnership with Saudi-backed LIV Golf, which drew criticism from the golfer. Despite strong performances in recent tournaments, including a runner-up finish at the U.S. Open, a tour victory had eluded the 34-year-old in 2023.
His triumph at the Scottish Open, a tournament co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour, marked his 24th win on the PGA Tour and a historic achievement, reports si.com. McIlroy became the first golfer to win the British Open, the Irish Open, and the Scottish Open, solidifying his place in golf history. Currently ranked third in the world, McIlroy aims to carry his newfound momentum into the British Open, the final major of the year, commencing on Thursday at Royal Liverpool.
Reflecting on his victory, McIlroy expressed relief and confidence, stating, “I’ve had a few near misses recently, so crossing the finish line and gaining this boost of confidence going into next week and the rest of the season is monumental.”
Throughout the tournament, McIlroy remained in contention, consistently appearing near the top of the leaderboard. However, he began Sunday’s final round trailing Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre after enduring a challenging start with four early bogeys. MacIntyre held a two-stroke lead over McIlroy after 15 holes, but a crucial bogey by the Scottish golfer on the par-5 16th and a birdie by McIlroy on the 14th brought them back on equal footing.
In a thrilling finale, MacIntyre regained the lead with a birdie on the 18th, eliciting cheers from the local crowd. His exceptional shot from the rough, followed by a successful putt, resulted in a remarkable 6-under-par 64. Nevertheless, McIlroy denied the 26-year-old rising star a signature victory.
Nice to add another National Open to the CV. Incredible week in Scotland. Can’t wait to come back next year. @ScottishOpen pic.twitter.com/3N0c8MCVYh
— Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) July 16, 2023
With a share of the lead after a birdie on the 17th hole, McIlroy approached the 18th hole with determination. His precise approach shot, utilizing a 2-iron, landed just 10 feet from the hole, leaving him in a favorable position. McIlroy described the shot as one of the best he has ever played in his career. Focused and composed, he sank the subsequent putt, describing his mindset as “taking in the scene and trying not to overthink it.”
Finishing the tournament with a total score of 15-under 265, McIlroy celebrated his first worldwide victory since the Dubai Desert Classic in January. The triumph at the Scottish Open not only signifies his return to form but also provides a significant boost ahead of the highly anticipated British Open.
As the golfing world turns its attention to the British Open, McIlroy’s recent success positions him as a strong contender to claim another major championship. With renewed confidence and momentum, the talented golfer aims to add to his illustrious career and etch his name further in the annals of golf history.
