Rory McIlroy has said his decision to play a more selective schedule has helped him find greater balance in his life while keeping his competitive drive strong.
The Northern Irish golfer has reduced the number of events he competes in since completing the career Grand Slam with his first Masters victory last year, but insists the change has not affected his hunger to win.
The Scottish Open marked just his third appearance outside of the major championships since his back-to-back Masters triumphs in early April.
View this post on Instagram
McIlroy made an impressive return to links golf at The Renaissance Club, finishing the opening day tied for the lead after shooting a five-under-par 65.
The world number two said the lighter schedule has allowed him to spend more time with his family while also helping him maintain his motivation after almost two decades at the top of the sport.
"The benefits are seeing my family more, feeling like I have a bit more balance in my life," McIlroy told the DP World Tour.
View this post on Instagram
He added that having more time away from competition has helped him arrive at tournaments feeling prepared rather than lacking sharpness.
"It's a very liberating feeling but again I can't get complacent. I still need to set goals. I felt like the Grand Slam last year was the destination - and I realised it wasn't. It's a continuous journey," he said.
The 37-year-old started his round from the 10th hole and recovered from early setbacks, making an eagle putt from around 18 feet on the par-five first before picking up further shots later in his round.
View this post on Instagram
A strong finish, including a difficult save from the sand on the ninth hole, left him sharing the lead with Rasmus Hojgaard, Patrick Cantlay, Tom Kim and Bernd Wiesberger.
McIlroy said returning to the Scottish links course reminded him of what first drew him to golf.
"At this stage of my career, I really enjoy coming back here to play. It reminds me of why I started to play the game in the first place; links golf courses and the crowds are incredible," he said.
The former World No.1 is now looking to build momentum ahead of the rest of the season, with his revised schedule designed to help him remain competitive while maintaining a healthier balance away from the course.
