The 35-year-old is set to return in action for the DP World Tour event, the 2024 Genesis Scottish Open. The event starts on July 11 and ends on July 14. This will mark his 15th event appearance of the 2024 season. The four-times major winner would have gotten past the heartbreaking defeat at the U.S. Open. And now, he’s ready to face new challenges.

“I’m going to take a few weeks away from the game to process everything and build myself back up for my defense of the Genesis Scottish Open and The Open at Royal Troon. See you in Scotland,” McIlroy stated in a social media post, the next day after he departed from Pinehurst No. 2 without speaking to the media. 

McIlroy will seek to defend his title, which he won last year with an impressive display of golf, shooting rounds of 64, 66, 67, and 68 to finish 15 under par 280. He edged out Scotland’s Robert McIntyre by a single stroke to claim the victory, of a remarkable 23 birdies and one eagle. By winning, he earned an impressive $1.57 million out of the total prize money of $9 million.

Moreover, his victory at the 2023 Genesis Scottish Open was a significant milestone in his career, marking his first win on Scottish soil. He will be looking to replicate that success this year, and his recent form suggests he has a strong chance. In his 14 events so far this season, McIlroy has secured five top-10 finishes, including wins at the Wells Fargo Championship and Zurich Classic of New Orleans. 

With this being said, a surprise awaits the defending champion at the Renaissance Club. 

Rory McIlroy set for a hero’s welcome at The Renaissance Club

All eyes will be on him, next week, at the Scottish Open, with a pleasant surprise waiting for him. The Renaissance Club’s 18th hole now features a newly unveiled plaque, celebrating Rory McIlroy’s remarkable 2-iron shot from 202 yards. The shot he skillfully played into a 40-mph wind to within 11 feet of the flag, setting up his triumphant birdie.

“We just did it today,” said Jerry Sarvadi, founder of the club. “We’re going to tell him when he gets here.” McIlroy dubbed it a career highlight, telling Sarvadi, “When I’m 80, I’ll still consider it one of the top five shots I’ve ever hit.” It was a testament to the shot’s greatness.

With his experience and skill, the 35-year-old is a strong contender to defend his title and claim his 18th DP World Tour victory. The memorial plaque and his return to the Scottish Open may be the catalyst he needs to reignite his spark and carry momentum into the British Open at the Royal Troon.

Express your thoughts in the comments section on the Northern Irishman’s next step.