Adam Scott is aiming for his first win in more than four years and goes into the final round of the Scottish Open in third place.
Scott was looking forward to his return to Scottish links golf ahead of next week’s British Open and shot a six-under-par 64 at the Renaissance Club in North Berkwick on Saturday, three shots behind Swedish leader Ludvig Aberg (65).
The 43-year-old former world number one played in front of a large, enthusiastic crowd and supported local hero Robert MacIntyre, who scored the day’s best 63 points to secure a place in Sunday’s final group, two places behind Aberg.
Australian Scott is aiming for his 15th victory on the PGA Tour, his first since the 2020 Genesis Invitational.
Scott said it helped him to play alongside MacIntyre, who was two shots ahead at one point and whose name was being called all over the course.
“Bob plays great and he’s the hero,” Scott said. “Playing golf in Scotland is fantastic – I’ve loved it my whole career – but playing with Bob today was really special.”
“It was great fun trying to stick to his heels when he was at his best.”
Scott did his best and created a good chance with three birdies in a row in the middle of the back nine holes, gaining some momentum for the British Open at Royal Troon.
Aberg made up for two bogeys early in the back nine with three late birdies to take an overnight lead of 17 under par and 193 strokes.
“It wasn’t the most stress-free golf, but it was another good result,” said Aberg. “I’m happy with how I persevered and finished it.”
Sahith Theegala (66), Collin Morikawa (66), Frenchman Antoine Rozner (68) and South Korean Sungjae Im (67) tied for fourth place with 13 under par.
Cam Davis was the second best Australian with a 66 and was in eleventh place at 10 under par. Min Woo Lee (70) finished in 61st place at three under par.
The final lap before the bulk of the field heads to Royal Troon is full of possibilities, starting with MacIntyre.
Scotland’s best player, who had already won the Canadian Open on the PGA Tour this year, finished with a tough bogey but was excited about the challenge ahead.
“I haven’t given it away: I want the Scottish Open,” MacIntyre said. “That won’t change tomorrow. I’m in that position. I’ve done good things.”
“I’ve been playing well, not just this week but also in the last eight weeks. I think my game is in good shape. Tomorrow I just have to keep myself under control.
“And if I do that well, I have a chance.”
– with AAP