Rory McIlroy fired a 5-under 65 to share the clubhouse lead after the first round of the Scottish Open. The Northern Irishman, playing his third event outside of majors since April, carded an eagle and three birdies on his back nine at the Renaissance Club. He sits tied with Patrick Cantlay, Tom Kim, and Bernd Wiesberger.

Brooks Koepka and Min Woo Lee are one shot back at 4-under, with Wyndham Clark also in contention at 3-under despite a rough start. Home favorite Robert Mac Intyre posted a solid 67, mixing five birdies with two bogeys. World number one Scottie Scheffler and Jon Rahm were among the afternoon starters.

McIlroy, who won the Scottish Open in 2023, spoke about the benefits of a lighter schedule, citing more family time and sustained enthusiasm for the game. He emphasized the need to avoid complacency, viewing his career as a continuous journey rather than a destination after completing the career Grand Slam last year.