Masters Champion McIlroy Shares Scottish Open Lead After Late Surge

Rory McIlroy is showing signs of returning to his peak form as he shares the lead at the Scottish Open with Chris Gotterup, both sitting at 11-under par after 54 holes. McIlroy, who won the Masters earlier this year, acknowledged a performance lull since that victory but feels he is regaining momentum just in time for the upcoming Open Championship. His strong third-round 4-under 66 included crucial birdies on the 14th and 16th holes, demonstrating his renewed confidence and skill. McIlroy's main competitors include Gotterup, a powerful athlete who tied the course record with a 61 on Friday, and Wyndham Clark, the 2023 US Open champion, who is tied for third at nine under and has been fine-tuning his putting game. McIlroy expressed excitement and enthusiasm about the rest of the season, aiming to build on recent success as he prepares for the Open and Ryder Cup. The final rounds promise intense competition among these top contenders at The Renaissance Club and beyond.