Story perspectives

Scheffler, McIlroy Back Scottish Open Retention, Gotterup Eyes Repeat

7/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Top players say the co-sanctioned 2026 Genesis Scottish Open proves National Opens can thrive, urging its retention in the PGA Tour’s Championship Series to preserve the event’s traditional fabric.
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and No. 2 Rory McIlroy are playing at the Renaissance Club in North Berwick, Scotland.
Defending champion Chris Gotterup, 2025 winner with a 4-under 66, seeks a historic back-to-back title.

History

Historical Context

In 1999 the PGA Tour and European Tour launched the co-sanctioned World Golf Championships, a four-event series that gathered elite players and featured a $5 million purse at Valderrama, establishing a “World Tour” concept. The 2026 Genesis Scottish Open at the Renaissance Club continues that legacy, fielding world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, No. 2 Rory McIlroy and defending champion Chris Gotterup, showing the lasting influence of the 1999 partnership.

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Story summary

Top players say the co-sanctioned 2026 Genesis Scottish Open proves National Opens can thrive, urging its retention in the PGA Tour’s Championship Series to preserve the event’s traditional fabric.
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and No. 2 Rory McIlroy are playing at the Renaissance Club in North Berwick, Scotland.
Defending champion Chris Gotterup, 2025 winner with a 4-under 66, seeks a historic back-to-back title.

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