Scottie Scheffler may be the best golfer in the world right now, but at the Scottish Open, he’s not the local favourite.
That honour goes to Robert MacIntyre, who grew up just a couple of hours away from The Renaissance Club and is back this week to defend his title, playing alongside the American in the first round.
Scheffler carded a three-under 67, while MacIntyre fought back from a slow start to post a 68. After their round, Scheffler spoke about what it was like playing alongside MacIntyre in front of his home fans.
Scottie Scheffler shares thoughts on British crowd supporting Robert MacIntyre
The American golfer didn’t seem concerned about playing against the fans’ favourite. In fact, he called it “fun”.
“It’s always fun playing with Bob,” Scheffler said. “He’s a great guy. Fun to watch him play some links golf. Feel like I learn some stuff from him out there. It was a good day.
“Bob was definitely the crowd favourite today but I felt like the crowd did a great job of supporting all three of us and it was a fun day.”
In his latest interview, MacIntyre opened up about how the fans are supporting him not only at the Renaissance Club but throughout his entire career.
“Yeah, it’s been unbelievable the support I’ve had since I turned professional. In 2019, I had a big finish at The Open, and that started the momentum. I’ve just trusted everything I’ve done. I’ve trusted the whole team around me and just, I don’t know my limits. So just keep pushing as hard as we can.
“Yeah, I hope that there’s many more Scottish guys. I know there’s a lot of young amateur guys pushing hard, and boys in America, as well. The more that I can do my bit, it drives them to go on but seeing them going well pushes me, as well.”
Scheffler, MacIntyre and Adam Scott will all be grouped together again for Friday afternoon’s second round.
- READ MORE: J.J. Spaun shares his thoughts on how Tyrrell Hatton and Robert MacIntyre reacted to his US Open win
Scottie Scheffler discusses opening round 67 at Scottish Open
Scheffler was set to finish the first round at least three shots off the lead, but it was still a solid start to his week.
Speaking after his round, the American felt he had left a few shots out there.
“I felt like I did some good things that I didn’t quite get rewarded for after my start, but you know, 3-under, I wish I could have a couple of bogeys back but overall, not too bad.”
Some of that frustration may have been down to the fact that Friday’s conditions are expected to be more difficult.
Scheffler added: “Well, this golf course in particular, the wind has a big effect on the way the golf course plays. I think tomorrow in the afternoon we’ll get the total opposite wind than we had today. So that will be a new challenge and something I get prepared for.”
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
