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 enters this tournament more refreshed.

"I definitely finished the round better than I started it," said McIlroy, who closed the first round with three consecutive birdies and is 2-under going to Friday.

Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele both make par at the tricky par-three 17th, but Viktor Hovland can only manage a bogey after his wayward tee shot.

Perhaps his sleeker look will lead to cooler play over the course of the four rounds at The Open Championship later this month.