Rory McIlroy in for a Pleasant Surprise at The Renaissance Club for Genesis Scottish Open

Rory McIlroy will be closely watched next week at the Genesis Scottish Open as he attempts to defend his title. A surprise awaits him at the event, but the bigger question is what frame of mind he will be in after losing the U.S. Open. Despite winning four career majors, McIlroy has not won in his last 37 major starts, a decade-long stretch.

In the U.S. Open, McIlroy held a two-shot lead with five holes to play but faltered in the end, allowing Bryson DeChambeau to claim victory by just one stroke. McIlroy missed key putts on the final holes that cost him the title. He did not speak to the media after the loss, instead announcing on social media that he would be taking a break from golf.

McIlroy will skip the Travelers Championship and focus on preparing for the Genesis Scottish Open and The Open at Royal Troon. When he arrives at the Renaissance Club in North Berwick, he will find a plaque commemorating his remarkable shot from last year’s tournament. The plaque was added as a surprise by the club founder.

The incredible shot McIlroy made last year reminds him of his skills and may serve as motivation for upcoming tournaments. The support from the club and the return to the site of his victory at the Scottish Open could give McIlroy the boost he needs for success at the British Open.