The Scottish Open has become one of the big events on the golf schedule ever since it became a partner event between the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour, as the best players from both tours come together for a chance to play some links golf in preparation for the Open Championship a week later.

McIlroy said he could hear the excitement in the voices of friends talking about his Masters win. And there’s the anticipation of two weeks of a different brand of golf, the Scottish Open that starts Thursday and then the British Open at Royal Portrush in his native Northern Ireland.

By the time Rory McIlroy reached the sixth tee box, he could already sense he wasn't far from the danger zone at the Scottish Open on Thursday.

The 153rd Open Championship is set to return to Royal Portrush, bringing together the world’s best golfers for one of the most anticipated weekends in the sport. All eyes are on American Xander Schauffele,