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.

Scotland's own Bob MacIntyre is the defending champion at his home open, but he will face an almighty task to retain the title in one of the season's strongest fields.