Rory at the ready for Friday
The man who, in April, became only the sixth player in history to complete a grand slam of all four major titles when he won the Masters looked to be heading for an average opening score when he sparked into life birdieing the last three holes to finish two under par.
That put the Northern Irishman alongside defending champion Bob McIntyre of Scotland but in a chasing pack.
'There was a little bit of rust in there after taking a couple of weeks of but I found my rhythm and started hitting better shots on the way in' said McIlroy.
Leading the way are four players on six under par (64) but there is plenty of Scottish presence on the leader board with Calum Hill st -5, Grant Forest at -3 and Ewen Ferguson alongside McIntyre at -2 as is Conor Syme.
Another Scot, Richie Ramsay, will start the day at even par (70).
10th July 2025 Renaissance Club, DP Tour Genesis Scottish Open golf champs day one with fans favourite Rory McIlroy pictured acknowledging the fans as he putt the ball on the 7th hole on Thursday afternoon
Pic Phil Wilkinson
10th July 2025 Renaissance Club
DP Tour Genesis Scottish Open golf champs day one with fans favourite Rory McIlroy pictured as he takes an iron off the 8th tee surrounded by his fans
Pic Phil Wilkinson
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