When Rory McIlroy arrived at Royal Portrush six years ago it was meant to be a glorious homecoming for Northern Ireland's most famous sportsman but his British Open hopes lasted only two rounds.

PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland — Rory McIlroy practically had Royal Portrush all to himself Monday morning, but not for long. By the time he finished his first practice round for the British Open — his first time back on these links in 2,187 days — there was a big crowd that weathered rain and sunshine to see him finish.

McIlroy is working on fumes after heading directly from the Scottish Open to his Open practice round on Monday

Chris Gotterup won the 2025 Genesis Scottish Open, securing his biggest career victory and a spot in the Open Championship. Gotterup, ranked 158th in the world before the tournament, held off a competitive field including Rory McIlroy to win by two strokes.

Chris Gotterup came up with the clutch shots on the biggest stage he has faced Sunday, taking down crowd favorite Rory McIlroy with a 4-under 66 and a two-shot victory in the Scottish Open that gives him another week of links golf.

From the Jersey Shore to the Scottish Coast, Chris Gotterup has laid claim to the biggest title of his professional golf career. Holding off fellow 54-hole leader Rory McIlroy at the Renaissance Club,