Rory McIlroy has declared that he is nearing the peak form he displayed during his Masters victory, as he shares the lead at the Scottish Open 2025. The Northern Irishman delivered a commanding third-round score of 66, placing him alongside Chris Gotterup at 11 under par.

McIlroy began the day four shots behind Gotterup but managed to close the gap impressively. The duo now leads by two shots heading into the final round. English golfers Matt Fitzpatrick and Marco Penge are tied for third place after both bogeyed the last hole, finishing with one-under 69s.

Since his career Grand Slam victory at Augusta National in April, McIlroy has experienced a dip in form. However, he believes he is returning to his best as he eyes his second Scottish Open title in three years. "I think I'm pretty close to being back to the level I was at going into the Masters," McIlroy stated.

McIlroy's round included five birdies, with his only bogey coming on the seventh hole after a challenging shot from a fairway bunker. The world number two has consistently performed well at the Renaissance Club, recording his 11th consecutive score of 68 or lower on these links.

Chris Gotterup, ranked 158th in the world, followed his course record-equalling 61 with a level-par 70. Meanwhile, Wyndham Clark matched McIlroy's 66, providing a much-needed boost in what has been a difficult season for the 2023 US Open winner.

Ludvig Aberg was in contention for the lead until a triple-bogey on the 13th hole derailed his momentum. The Swede finished with a 71, leaving him four shots behind the leaders. Scottie Scheffler, the world number one, struggled with a frustrating 71, managing his first birdie only on the 13th hole.

In a highlight of the day, Romain Langasque achieved a hole-in-one on the 145-yard par-three 14th, adding a moment of brilliance to the tournament. Defending champion Bob MacIntyre struggled to a 72, finishing one over par.

As the tournament heads into its final round, all eyes will be on McIlroy and Gotterup as they battle for the prestigious Scottish Open title.