Bob MacIntyre gesture causes fury in Scottish Open win and revenge over Rory McIlroy

Bob MacIntyre realized a childhood dream by winning the Scottish Open on Sunday in front of a home crowd, despite a controversial moment in his final round. In a thrilling duel with Adam Scott, the Ryder Cup star took advantage of the Australian’s missed birdie putt on the last hole to finish 18 under par, just one shot ahead of his competitor.

By triumphing at the Renaissance Club, MacIntyre became the first Scottish player to lift the trophy since Colin Montgomerie in 1999. This victory was especially sweet as he narrowly missed out on the title last year to Rory McIlroy, who finished tied for fourth this time, four shots behind the 27-year-old MacIntyre.

The pivotal moment on Sunday occurred on the 16th hole. After MacIntyre’s wayward drive on the 572-yard par five landed in deep rough, officials allowed him a free drop, ruling his ball was too close to a sprinkler head. This decision was crucial, as it enabled MacIntyre to reach the green with his second shot, instead of chipping back onto the fairway. He made the most of this opportunity, sinking his approach shot and then putting for an eagle.

While MacIntyre’s victory delighted the North Berwick crowd, many golf fans were outraged by the ruling. Social media erupted with debate about whether the DP World and PGA Tour should review regulations regarding free drops. One user, @Top100Rick, commented on X: “He would have been lucky to advance the ball 50 yards. Could have been a disaster.” He added, “Robbie did NOTHING WRONG. But the rule is stupid. If you aren’t in the fairway, you should have to recreate your lie after sprinkler head relief. Simple.” Another user, @SenseiBear44, stated, “I like Bob McIntyre but getting a drop in two foot of rough is utter nonsense and makes a joke of the game.” @jrid6996 noted, “Too many instances of ‘relief’ putting the player in a much better position. Doesn’t seem right.”

Despite the controversy, MacIntyre still had to perform under pressure, finishing with a birdie on the last hole to secure his win. His dramatic comeback began with a sublime round of 63 on Saturday, putting him two shots off the lead as he teed off on Sunday.

Reflecting on his victory, MacIntyre admitted he struggled to contain his emotions. “I had a tear in my eye before I hit the putt,” he said. “I was getting emotional before I read the putt. I still had a job to do. This was the one I wanted, and it was the one I got. I can’t believe it’s happened.”