Rory McIlroy believes he is “close to being back” to his level at the Masters after taking a share of the lead at the Scottish Open.

The Masters champion came from four shots behind overnight leader Chris Gotterup to join him at the top on 11 under on day three at the Renaissance Club.

Thirty-six-year-old McIlroy posted five birdies throughout his third round, and just one bogey, as he searches for his second Scottish Open title.

McIlory admitted he has endured a “lull” since his win at Augusta National in April, but he now feels as though he is finding his form again.

“I think I'm pretty close to being back to the level I was at going into the Masters," said McIlroy.

“I think I've had a little bit of a lull, which I feel is understandable. When you do something that you've been dreaming your whole life to do... it was a huge moment in my life and my career.

“I think I just needed that little bit of time. And to be back here for last couple of weeks, and feel like I could actually digest all of it, I feel like I came to this tournament with renewed enthusiasm and excitement for the rest of the year.”

Tied for the lead and feeding off the Scottish energy

Rory’s ready for Sunday @ScottishOpen pic.twitter.com/lm679of088
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) July 12, 2025

2023 US Open winner Wyndham Clark is tied for third on nine under.

The American has just one top-ten finish this year and has missed the cut at two of his past three events, but he is optimistic going into the final round.

“It's just nice to be back in this position and let's see if I can go put a good round together and have four solid days of golf,” said Clark.

“I've hit a lot of good putts all year and just haven't holed anything. Now it's nice to see the ball go in the hole. I made a couple of adjustments and they seemed to work.”