Context:

Rory McIlroy shares the lead with Chris Gotterup at the Scottish Open, demonstrating a resurgence in form reminiscent of his Masters victory. McIlroy impressed with key shots, including a 15-foot birdie on the 14th and a sand wedge hit from 173 yards to 10 feet for birdie, culminating in a 4-under 66. Gotterup, despite a strong start and a course record-equalling 61 on Friday, faltered slightly with a bogey on the 14th and finished with a 70. The tournament sees McIlroy, Gotterup, and Wyndham Clark in the final group, with the top three not yet qualified securing a spot at the British Open. McIlroy, aiming for his first win on home soil as a professional, feels renewed enthusiasm and excitement, saying he is close to regaining his top form after a lull post-Masters win.

Dive Deeper:

• Rory McIlroy, co-leading with Chris Gotterup at the Scottish Open, is showing signs of returning to the form that won him the Masters in April, with a standout performance on Saturday at The Renaissance Club.

• McIlroy's round included a crucial 15-foot birdie on the par-3 14th and a remarkable recovery shot from a bunker on the 16th, which kept his momentum going and led to a 4-under 66 finish.

• Chris Gotterup, who had a flawless 34-hole run without a bogey and tied the course record with a 61 on Friday, struggled with a bogey on the 14th and missed opportunities on the back nine, concluding with a 70.

• The tournament's final group will feature McIlroy, Gotterup, and Wyndham Clark, with the leading three players not yet eligible securing places at Royal Portrush for the British Open.

• McIlroy, who has been on a two-week break and described his play as 80% of his potential, expressed satisfaction with his performance, noting it was his best golf of the week despite not scoring as well as the previous day.

• Gotterup maintained composure despite a challenging start on Saturday, feeling he could have capitalized on more opportunities but remains confident in his abilities heading into the final round.

• McIlroy is eager to win on home soil for the first time as a professional, feeling rejuvenated and ready to showcase his skills with renewed enthusiasm following his career-defining Masters victory.