Chris Gotterup is back at the Renaissance Club to defend his Genesis Scottish Open title, arriving as a champion once again after a victory at the John Deere Classic. The American, who stunned the golf world last year by beating Rory McIlroy, now returns as World No.7 and a clear contender for back-to-back wins in the $9 million event.
Metoric Rise from Underdog to Elite
Gotterup entered the 2025 Scottish Open as World No.158 and a massive outsider. But rankings counted for nothing as he outplayed double Masters Champion Rory McIlroy down the stretch to claim the Rolex Series prize. Since then, his career has skyrocketed: he has won the Sony Open, the Phoenix Open, and now the John Deere Classic, becoming just the fifth player since 2000 to earn five wins in 85 or fewer starts.
Reflecting on his journey, Gotterup said: "We're all crazy, golfers. The bads feel really bad even though they're not that bad and the goods feel like you're unbeatable. I think it's always a work in progress."
Mental Maturity and Course Adaptation
Gotterup credits his growth in handling adversity. "I don't know if I'd be here two years ago, but you learn from those things. I don't think I would have been able to handle my not-so-great golf as well as I did the last two days, score-wise and mentally," he said. "I feel like I've matured a lot and gotten a lot better at dealing with adversity and just growing up."
He describes himself as more intense on the course but relaxed off it: "When I'm off the course, I'm pretty done with golf and going back and hanging out, watching movies or sports. I like to think I'm more chill at home than on the course."
Links Test and Family Support
Gotterup's game suits the links test, as he demonstrated last year and at The Open at Royal Portrush, where he finished third behind Claret Jug winner Scottie Scheffler. While the Renaissance Club is vastly different from TPC Deere Run, he noted: "It worked last year. I didn't play as good last year, so hopefully it's good prep, even though they're about as polar opposite as it gets. I think just getting good tournament reps is helpful."
This week's victory was extra special as his younger brother Patrick caddied for him. "Obviously Brady, who caddies for me normally, had a kid last week and we kind of planned this out a couple of months ago. We were just planning on having a fun week and, obviously, try to come win, but to have it actually happen is cool and just a special moment that we'll never forget," Gotterup said.
