Rory McIlroy, 36, Reflects on Underappreciated Value Ahead of Genesis Scottish Open

Rory McIlroy, 36, Reflects on Underappreciated Value Ahead of Genesis Scottish Open originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Media activities are officially underway ahead of the Genesis Scottish Open at The Renaissance Club in North Berwick, Scotland, where Rory McIlroy once again finds himself under the spotlight.

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In his Wednesday press conference, McIlroy touched on a theme he believes is underappreciated across all sports: longevity.

"I think it’s one of the underappreciated things about any sport and anyone, like you look at what Novak Djokovic is doing at Wimbledon over the last couple of weeks, or what someone like Cristiano Ronaldo is still doing at 40 years old, or a Tom Brady in American football. That longevity piece, I think, is something that maybe isn't talked about enough because once you get to a certain level… it takes just as much work, if not more work, to stay there."

He added that adapting his game as he ages has become critical to remaining competitive against younger stars such as world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.

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Since turning professional in 2007, McIlroy has amassed a significant number of professional victories, including 29 on the PGA Tour and 19 on the European Tour.

He's captured five major championships in that time, including the U.S. Open (2011), The Open Championship (2014), PGA Championship (2012, 2014) and most recently, the Masters Tournament, a win that completed the career Grand Slam.

McIlroy previously won the Scottish Open in 2023, finished fourth in 2024, and he is one of the favorites to win this year's title.

Rory McIlroy plays his shot from the 18th tee during the third round of the Travelers Championship.© Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

This week’s event kicks off on Thursday with a field of 156 players competing for a $9 million purse, with the winner slated to pocket approximately $1.53 million.

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The roster, headlined by Scheffler, McIlroy, two‑time major winner Xander Schauffele and defending champion Robert MacIntyre, promises a lot of drama and buildup for next week's Open Championship.

Related: Scottie Scheffler Makes Strong Statement After Major Career Decision

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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 9, 2025, where it first appeared.

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