Bob MacIntyre taking Scottish Open inspiration from Andy Murray as Ryder Cup heroes get the Wimbledon treatment

Bob MacIntyre reckons Andy Murray is an inspiration. But the Oban star is trying to turn down the racket ahead of his big homecoming.

MacIntyre and his European Ryder Cup pals were guests at Wimbledon ahead of the Genesis Scottish Open. He paid tribute to two-time champion Murray, who made his farewell appearance last week. MacIntyre said: “It’s been brilliant for me to watch him and he’s an inspiration to not just myself, but many others. Injuries come to most athletes and it’s just a shame the way he’s gone out, but look at what he’s done for British tennis and Scottish tennis.”

The Oban ace admits he can’t wait for the Claret Jug crack at Royal Troon. And MacIntyre says the next best thing to Major success would be going one better at this year’s Renaissance spectacular. The home hero is gearing up for a fabulous double header on his own turf.

Victory in the Canadian Open on the PGA Tour has rocketed expectations around MacIntyre. Having finished in the Top 10 twice in four Open attempts, he’s a contender.

But MacIntyre said: “I’ve been working hard on trying to lower the noise around it. I’m going there to perform. All I can do is try to compete as hard as I can and if I do that well, we’ll be there or thereabouts. I’ve only ever played Troon once before and that was just the other day, so I’m looking forward to playing another Major.”

MacIntyre’s first job is in East Lothian as he aims to better his runner-up finish behind Rory McIlroy 12 months ago. He told BBC: “It was a dream of mine, if I was ever a professional golfer, to compete in a Scottish Open. And, if I could compete in it, I’m going there to win. I’d love to win a Scottish Open. If not a major, then the Scottish Open is the next thing.”