Scotland's Robert MacIntyre is not afraid to attack Royal Portrush when he feels he has a chance to make a move.
The three-time DP World Tour winner shot a second-round 66, featuring six birdies and a bogey, to propel himself from level par to five under and within striking distance of the lead heading into the weekend at The 153rd Open.
MacIntyre missed out on his first Major title at last month’s U.S. Open after JJ Spaun holed a monster putt on the final hole, but his runners-up spot gave his confidence a big lift.
"I’m not scared. I’m not going to back away. It’s completely different to Oakmont," said MacIntyre of his intent for the weekend on a course where he finished tied for sixth in 2019.
"Oakmont, I couldn’t roll the dice. It was never ‘Let’s press, let’s press’. It was always, ‘Right, let’s go out here with pars’.
"This week, hopefully come the 69th, 70th hole, I’ve got a chance. If I’ve got a chance, I’m going to roll it.
"I’ve got so much more confidence and so much more belief that I am good enough.
"I'd obviously managed to finish top-ten in Majors before but I'd never competed.
Fine day for it @TheOpen 🍦 pic.twitter.com/WkpqY6IRnR
— Robert MacIntyre (@robert1lefty) July 16, 2025
"In the PGA Championship this year, I was right in the mix. There was a lot going on Saturday, Sunday and I fell away, but I had so much confidence going in that I was at that level now.
"Oakmont obviously happens, which gives you another boost. I feel like the last three Majors, I’ve put myself in good positions after 36 holes.
"I’m in a good spot. I feel happy, confident, comfortable. I’m going to go out and give it my best shot all the way through Sunday afternoon."
