2024 Genesis Scottish Open: Top 10 power rankings at The Renaissance Club

The overarching storyline this week is Rory McIlroy.

It’d be a big deal in and of itself that he’s the defending champion.

What makes it an even bigger deal is it’s his first appearance since taking time away from the spotlight following his U.S. Open heartbreak a month ago.

McIlroy played splendid golf at Pinehurst No. 2 and had his occasionally untrustworthy putter rolling early on Sunday as he stormed to a two-shot lead on the back nine on Sunday. That same putter cost him on some short putts down the stretch, resulting in solo second place and a shot back of LIV rival, Bryson DeChambeau.

The despondent McIlroy declined meeting with the media afterward and skipped his second Signature Event of the season (meaning a sacrifice of PIP money) by withdrawing from the Travelers Championship the next week.

He hasn’t played since, opting to take some time to rest and reflect prior to returning to Renaissance Club.

The Northern Irishman posted 64-66-67-68 to win the Genesis Scottish Open last year. McIlroy hit some brilliant shots during a blustery final round to chase down Robert MacIntyre.

McIlroy led the field in Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee (5.617) and was seventh in SG: Approach (5.542). He also led in driving distance (331.9 yards) and birdies (22).

McIlroy won earlier this year on the DP World Tour at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and on the PGA Tour at the Wells Fargo Championship. The 35-year-old has finished in the top 15 in five straight events. He’s finished worse than T-33rd just once all year.

It’s hard to know how exactly he’ll come out this week given the circumstances, but McIlroy’s floor is as high as anyone’s. He may not win, but it’s highly unlikely he’ll submarine your fantasy lineup.