Rory McIlroy finds himself five shots off the lead as he heads into the final round of the Genesis Scottish Open, following a frustrating third round of 67.
Defending champion McIlroy’s performance was overshadowed by the impressive play of Robert MacIntyre and Ludvig Aberg at The Renaissance Club.
MacIntyre, determined to claim his first Scottish Open title after last year’s near miss, delivered a stellar third round of 63. This score, the lowest of the day, placed him two shots behind Aberg, who leads at 17 under par. Aberg, after rounds of 64, maintained his form with a 65, while former world number one Adam Scott is close behind at 16 under following a 64.
Despite his challenges, MacIntyre remains optimistic, having played a solid round with an eagle and seven birdies, buoyed by support from the home crowd.
“The last is a difficult hole… but overall I played absolutely brilliantly,”MacIntyre said, expressing his desire to win the Scottish Open.
McIlroy, who has been consistently near the top, felt he could have performed better.
“The birdies dried up,” McIlroy admitted.
He noted that missed opportunities on the last few holes cost him potential gains. Yet, he remains hopeful, aiming for a strong start in the final round to contend for the title. Reflecting on his position, he acknowledged the competitive field and his focus on playing well in both the Scottish Open and the upcoming Open at Royal Troon.
Aberg, despite a slight falter with bogeys on the 11th and 12th holes, regained composure with birdies on the 13th, 16th, and 17th to reclaim the lead.
“Not the most stress-free golf but it was again a good score,” Aberg remarked
looking forward to the final round alongside MacIntyre, a pairing he anticipates will be exciting.
As the tournament approaches its climax, McIlroy’s bid to defend his title faces stiff competition from both MacIntyre and Aberg, setting up a thrilling conclusion at the Genesis Scottish Open.
