Gotterup Captures Scottish Open, Earns Open Championship Berth
Rookie edges McIlroy in dramatic final round
Chris Gotterup secured his spot at the upcoming British Open by winning the Genesis Scottish Open, holding off a strong challenge from Rory McIlroy on Sunday.
Dramatic Finish at Renaissance Club
The 25-year-old carded a final-round 66 at The Renaissance Club in North Berwick, finishing two shots clear of McIlroy and Marco Penge. This victory marks the biggest of Gotterup‘s career, adding to his maiden PGA Tour win at last year’s Myrtle Beach Classic.
He did it! @ChrisGotterup wins the @Scottish_Open! pic.twitter.com/d0jA1O0m7G
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) June 9, 2024
Gotterup‘s performance secured him a $1.57 million prize and, crucially, one of the final invitations to The Open Championship next week.
“It’s just awesome. I’m not going to be able to keep it together. It’s awesome. I can’t wait to see everyone, and I’m playing in the Open next week.”
—Chris Gotterup
Gotterup’s Stellar Play
Gotterup surged into contention after matching the course record with a 9-under 61 on Friday, establishing a two-shot lead at the halfway mark. Despite a Saturday round of 70 that allowed McIlroy to catch up, Gotterup maintained his composure on Sunday.
Although he bogeyed his opening hole, Gotterup made the turn at 2-under. He extended his lead on the back nine with birdies at holes 10 and 12, including a precise tee shot on the par-3 12th that landed within feet of the pin.
Gotterup maintained a two-shot advantage entering the final hole and sealed his victory with a two-putt par. The win makes him only the sixth American to claim the Scottish Open title.
McIlroy’s Missed Opportunity
Rory McIlroy, who shot a 68 on Sunday, made par on his final ten holes, failing to capitalize on several birdie opportunities. A missed chance on the par-5 16th proved particularly costly. The finish matched his worst competitive round at The Renaissance Club.
McIlroy was chasing his 30th PGA Tour career victory, which would have placed him among golf’s elite. He had been enjoying a strong season, following his Masters win and career Grand Slam achievement with solid performances.
Marco Penge and Rory McIlroy finished two strokes behind Gotterup. Nicolai Højgaard and Matt Fitzpatrick completed the top five.
Career-Altering Win for Gotterup
This triumph significantly boosts Gotterup‘s standing on the PGA Tour. He had entered the week without a top-10 finish this season and ranked 158th in the Official World Golf Rankings. His win propels him to 39th in the FedEx Cup standings, securing his place in the FedExCup Playoffs.
Gotterup‘s performance is expected to elevate his world ranking to a new career-high. This victory provides a substantial foundation for his future career on tour. According to the Official World Golf Rankings, golfers within the top 50 are generally exempt from qualifying for major championships, reinforcing the significance of this win.