McIlroy recorded an eagle and six birdies in an opening six-under-par 64 at The Renaissance Club that left him three shots off the lead held by South Korea's Ben An, who carded a flawless 61 to equal the course record.

"It's a really good start," McIlroy said.

"I've not had particularly great results around this course the last couple of times but I feel like my game is definitely in better shape now.”

"I feel like I'm coming in here playing really good golf, producing good results and getting myself in contention and I'm just really trying to do the same things and adapt to the different conditions we're going to face over the next couple of weeks."

"I've got myself off to a great start and I would love to win the Scottish Open.”- Rory McIlroy.

Next week is the 151st Open Championship at Royal Liverpool – where McIlroy won the third of his four major titles nine years ago.

"My mind is pretty much on this week," the 34-year-old added.

"I've got myself off to a great start and I would love to win the Scottish Open.”

"I'm focused on this week but it's great that by playing this week I should be getting a little bit more prepared for links golf again next week as well."

An carded nine birdies to enjoy a two-shot lead over American Davis Riley, with Thomas Detry alongside McIlroy at six-under-par.

Min Woo Lee – who won the event in 2021 – was the best placed Australian, tied for 26th on two-under, with the rest of the Aussie contingent recording over par opening rounds.