Robert MacIntyre is on fire – and he's got his sights firmly set on that elusive Open Championship title! The 29-year-old Scot has been making waves in golf circles this season, but nothing will get his heart racing quite like the chance to lift the Claret Jug at Royal Birkdale. Currently ranked within the world's top 20, MacIntyre is convinced he's a force to be reckoned with – and it's not just his impressive form that has him feeling bullish.
The former European Ryder Cup star has been in scintillating form of late, finishing third at the Scottish Open just last week. But it's the maturity and self-assurance that's really caught the eye. "In 2019, I felt like I was just going through the motions," MacIntyre admitted, reflecting on his major debut at Royal Portrush four years ago. "I was making up the numbers." Cut to now, and he's a changed golfer – one who truly believes he can do the business if he plays his best golf.
The challenge ahead is far from straightforward, however. The conditions at Royal Birkdale are set to be brutal, with strong winds and fast-running fairways making course management a top priority. MacIntyre was in no doubt after Monday's practice round: "It was brutal out there today – the wind was howling!" But he's not one to shy away from a fight. His strategy involves playing smart, using shorter clubs off the tee to avoid trouble and prioritising accuracy over power.