Robert MacIntyre is feeling the pressure as he aims to claim victory at the Genesis Scottish Open, admitting he may struggle to forgive Rory McIlroy for snatching the title from him last year. MacIntyre set a challenging clubhouse target with a remarkable birdie on the 18th hole at the Renaissance Club, only to be overtaken by McIlroy’s amazing performance on the final two holes. Despite a slim 0.15 percent chance of McIlroy birdying both the 17th and 18th, he managed to secure the win with a stunning shot on the last hole.
Reflecting on his near-miss, MacIntyre expressed his desire to win the Scottish Open, considering it a crucial title for him. While he acknowledged the skill of McIlroy’s winning shot, he admitted that it was a heartbreaking moment for him. However, MacIntyre also revealed that he had spoken to McIlroy about the putt during their time as Ryder Cup teammates, gaining insight into the moment of uncertainty that ultimately led to McIlroy’s victory.
MacIntyre’s decision to compete on the PGA Tour this season initially faced challenges as he struggled to adapt to being away from home. However, a three-week return to Scotland revitalized his performance, leading to strong finishes in tournaments and even a victory at the RBC Canadian Open. Despite his success in the US, MacIntyre emphasized his commitment to Scotland, planning to scale back his expenses in the States and focus on practising at home during the wintertime.
As MacIntyre prepares to compete alongside McIlroy and Ryder Cup teammate Viktor Hovland at the Scottish Open, he is approaching the event with a new level of calmness. Drawing from his experience in team competitions, MacIntyre feels a personal connection with McIlroy and Hovland, making him more comfortable on the course. Despite the ups and downs in his game, MacIntyre is determined to give his best effort in pursuit of the Scottish Open title, viewing it as a significant opportunity for him as a Scottish golfer.
Looking ahead to the tournament, MacIntyre is focused on maintaining his composure and executing his game plan to the best of his abilities. While last year’s near-victory still lingers in his mind, he sees the upcoming Scottish Open as a fresh opportunity to showcase his skills and compete against top players like McIlroy and Hovland. With a renewed sense of confidence and determination, MacIntyre is poised to make his mark in the tournament and vie for the title that holds special significance for him as a Scottish golfer.
In conclusion, Robert MacIntyre’s quest for redemption at the Genesis Scottish Open is fueled by his desire to claim victory after narrowly missing out on the title last year. As he prepares to face tough competition, including Rory McIlroy and Viktor Hovland, MacIntyre remains focused on giving his best performance and showcasing his skills on the course. With a newfound sense of calmness and determination, MacIntyre is ready to take on the challenge and make his mark in the tournament, aiming to secure the Scottish Open title that holds significant importance for him as a golfer from Scotland.
