The Scottish Open has become one of the big events on the golf schedule ever since it became a partner event between the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour, as the best players from both tours come together for a chance to play some links golf in preparation for the Open Championship a week later.

McIlroy enters this tournament more refreshed.

"I definitely finished the round better than I started it," said McIlroy, who closed the first round with three consecutive birdies and is 2-under going to Friday.

Words are tricky. Their meanings change constantly, and the next thing you know, a phrase as old as time has a new definition. Golf is a sport of history, which makes this entire rigamarole over what to call the British Open/Open Championship/The Open so confusing.

McIlroy said he could hear the excitement in the voices of friends talking about his Masters win. And there’s the anticipation of two weeks of a different brand of golf, the Scottish Open that starts Thursday and then the British Open at Royal Portrush in his native Northern Ireland.

Rory McIlroy salvaged his opening round with a superb finish as Sepp Straka defied his own "very low expectations" to share the Scottish Open lead.

A major championship win anywhere is an incredible achievement, but a storied venue can make them feel a bit more meaningful and add to the weight of the moment.