McIlroy Storms Into Shared Scottish Open Lead, Scheffler’s Streak Ends

Rory McIlroy produced a composed and confident display in testing conditions to move into a three-way share of the lead at the Scottish Open, while world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler suffered a stunning early exit by missing the cut for the first time in nearly four years.

McIlroy carded a 4-under 66 at The Renaissance Club to reach 9-under 131 , where he was joined by England's Jordan Smith , who fired a tournament-best 63 , and South Korea's Tom Kim , who matched McIlroy with a 66 .

The biggest talking point, however, was Scheffler's departure. The American struggled throughout his second round and signed for a 72 , ending his remarkable streak of 78 consecutive cuts made . It was his first missed cut since the 2022 FedEx St. Jude Championship , the longest active streak in men's golf and the best since Tiger Woods' famous run of 142.

"Got off to a poor start and after that, I didn't really hit it close enough to give myself a bunch of looks," Scheffler said. "That's how you shoot over par."

McIlroy, the 2023 Scottish Open champion, looked increasingly comfortable on the firm links-style turf after putting a new wedge into play ahead of next week's British Open at Royal Birkdale. Although pleased with his position, the Northern Irishman felt there were still opportunities left on the course.

"It would have been nice to be a couple better, but it's obviously another good day and I'm in a good position," he said.

Smith surged into contention with four consecutive birdies on the back nine, while Kim continued his impressive resurgence by holing a 40-foot eagle putt and adding two late birdies. The young Korean, who recently climbed back into form after slipping outside the world's top 100, said working away from the spotlight had helped rebuild his game.

Just one stroke behind the leaders were Matt Fitzpatrick and Min Woo Lee at 8-under , with defending champion Chris Gotterup and Scotland's Robert MacIntyre among a large group at 7-under heading into a crowded weekend battle.