As the northern hemisphere summer unfolds, the golf world`s focus inevitably drifts towards the ancient links of Scotland. Holding a prestigious position in the global golf calendar, particularly as a key stop on the PGA TOUR and DP World Tour co-sanctioned schedule and a traditional lead-in to The Open Championship, the Genesis Scottish Open is set to return, promising another week of compelling drama.
For 2025, the tournament makes its way back to the challenging confines of The Renaissance Club in North Berwick. From Thursday, July 10th, through Sunday, July 13th, the best players from across the globe will test their mettle against the elements and a finely tuned links layout.
All eyes will undoubtedly be on the defending champion, Scotland`s own Robert MacIntyre. His victory in 2024 was the stuff of local legend. After a close second-place finish to Rory McIlroy in 2023, MacIntyre delivered a performance punctuated by pure theater, sinking a memorable 22-foot birdie putt on the final hole to narrowly edge out Adam Scott. This win was not just a personal triumph but marked the first time a Scot had claimed the national open title in a quarter-century, sending the home crowd into jubilant scenes.
The field converging on North Berwick is expected to be nothing short of spectacular. Early indications point to the presence of the top echelon of the sport, including the world`s top five ranked players: Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Xander Schauffele, Justin Thomas, and Collin Morikawa, among many other prominent names. Watching these giants navigate the strategic demands of links golf – managing wind, finding the right bounces, and executing delicate short game shots – is a highlight in itself.
Beyond the glory of the title, significant rewards are on the line. The tournament boasts a total purse of $9 million, with the eventual champion taking home a substantial $1.5 million payday, along with a critical 500 FedEx Cup points, potentially shaping their path towards the season-ending playoffs.
For fans in the United States eager to follow the action live from Scotland, the broadcast details confirm coverage will be available via streaming platforms. Enthusiasts can tune in through the ESPN streaming hub, accessible on Disney+ and ESPN+. Be advised, however, that the time difference necessitates an early start for viewers across the pond. Here`s the primary coverage schedule (all times Eastern):
- Thursday, July 10 (First Round): Coverage begins at 2:00 AM ET
- Friday, July 11 (Second Round): Coverage begins at 2:00 AM ET
- Saturday, July 12 (Third Round): Coverage begins at 4:15 AM ET
- Sunday, July 13 (Fourth Round): Coverage begins at 4:15 AM ET
Coverage is slated to include the main feed, showcasing the overall tournament leaders and key moments, as well as dedicated featured groups, allowing fans to follow marquee pairings throughout their rounds. An early alarm clock, perhaps paired with a strong coffee, seems a requisite piece of equipment for the dedicated viewer hoping to catch the opening tee shots and crucial early action.
The return to The Renaissance Club signifies a return to a modern links test that has quickly established itself. While perhaps not possessing the centuries-old history of some Open venues, it offers a stern, strategic examination of a player`s game, demanding creativity and adaptability – classic hallmarks of golf by the sea.
With a compelling defending champion narrative, a stellar field, significant stakes, and the timeless challenge of Scottish links, the 2025 Genesis Scottish Open is poised to be a must-watch event for any golf aficionado. The stage is set for another memorable chapter in Scotland`s rich golfing history.
