Rory McIlroy is one of golf’s top players right now, so it should come as no surprise to hear that one PGA Tour star was desperate to get the better of the Northern Irishman
As Chris Gotterup approached the 18th tee at the 2025 Genesis Scottish Open a few weeks ago, it was clear who the crowd favoured – and it certainly wasn’t him.
The support for Rory McIlroy, who confessed to only having a mere four hours of sleep post-tournament, echoed around the Renaissance Club. Yet, far from feeling daunted, Gotterup harnessed that fervour to make an emphatic point.
With the Maryland native and McIlroy starting the day neck and neck, the American showcased remarkable poise. He carded a steady 4-under 66 to clinch the title at 15-under, leaving McIlroy and Marco Penge trailing by two strokes.
“The crowd was definitely calling for Rory and not me, so it definitely made me want to stick it up to him a little bit, too. I don’t really know why,” admitted Gotterup.
This victory marked his second on the PGA Tour and secured his spot in the Open Championship at Royal Portrush, where he outplayed McIlroy again, finishing third at Portrush, while the Holywood-born star had to settle for T7. Post-round, Gotterup embraced the role of the “villain” amidst the overwhelming cheers for McIlroy.
He said: “There were a lot of cries of ‘Rory’ and not many of ‘Chris’… I felt like I was ready and prepared mentally today.”
The outpouring of emotion was palpable as Gotterup sank the final putt. With tears streaming down his face, he told CBS Sports: “I don’t know if I’m going to be able to get it out… but it’s awesome.”
The significance of this achievement resonated deeply with Gotterup, especially after a turbulent start to his season. He missed the cut in eight of his opening twelve PGA Tour appearances of 2025.
However, following the Valero Texas Open, he only failed to make one cut and dramatically transformed his fortunes with steady performances.. Gotterup has now become one of the Tour’s most captivating narratives.
McIlroy summed it up perfectly after the round when he praised Gotterup’s display, saying: “Chris played a great round of golf. He was so solid. I just couldn’t claw back.”
When questioned about facing McIlroy in direct competition, Gotterup responded: “I felt good on the first tee today… I felt comfortable. I knew I was playing well this week. I felt like I was ready for the challenge.”
Through accepting the antagonist’s mantle and allowing the pressure to enhance his performance, Gotterup demonstrated something that transcends technical ability: psychological strength.
His crucial birdies on the 10th and 12th holes shifted momentum decisively, and even dropping a shot on the 15th couldn’t unsettle him.
He answered immediately with a vital birdie on 16 to secure his position and take one huge step towards victory.
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