Genesis Scottish Open lands major boost ahead of The Open

Major champions Aaron Rai, J.J. Spaun and Brooks Koepka have been confirmed for the 2026 Genesis Scottish Open, adding even more firepower to an already world-class field at The Renaissance Club in North Berwick from 9-12 July.

The trio will join world number one Scottie Scheffler, defending champion Chris Gotterup, Ryder Cup star Viktor Hovland, and former champions Rory McIlroy, Robert MacIntyre and Xander Schauffele at Scotland's national open, which takes place the week before The Open at Royal Birkdale.

Fresh from securing his maiden major title at the PGA Championship, Rai returns to a venue that holds special memories. 

The 31-year-old Englishman claimed his first Rolex Series victory at the Genesis Scottish Open in 2020, defeating Tommy Fleetwood in a playoff before the tournament became co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour and PGA Tour.

Rai, now ranked 13th in the world, will make his ninth consecutive appearance in the tournament.

"The win at Renaissance Club in 2020 was really special." said Rai.

"I played a lot in Scotland growing up, and being able to win on Scottish soil was an incredible feeling. 

"A lot has happened in the six years since, and particularly in the last few weeks, but I am as excited as ever to be coming back to the Genesis Scottish Open."

Joining him is 2025 U.S. Open champion Spaun, who will return to Scotland ahead of his title defence at Shinnecock Hills in two weeks time. 

The 35-year-old American captured his first major title in dramatic fashion 12 months ago, holing a remarkable 65-foot birdie putt on the final green to defeat MacIntyre by two shots. 

Spaun also arrives on the back of victory at the Valero Texas Open earlier this season.

"I've played the Genesis Scottish Open a couple of times in the past, and this year I hope it's part of another exciting summer," said Spaun.

"I have a big couple of weeks coming up, and then I'm looking forward to getting back over to the UK for this event and The Open."

Five-time major champion Koepka will make his first Genesis Scottish Open appearance in 11 years. 

The 36-year-old American last played the tournament in 2015 and is set for a highly anticipated return after competing in three consecutive editions between 2013 and 2015.

Koepka's links pedigree includes a victory in Scotland in 2013 during his time on the Challenge Tour, now known as the HotelPlanner Tour, and the former world number one is eager to add another Scottish success to his decorated CV.

"I have great memories of playing in Scotland over the years, going way back to that victory in 2013, so it's cool to be going back to the Genesis Scottish Open this summer," said Koepka.

"It's in a great spot in the week before The Open, and has an interesting field with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour guys coming together, so I'm looking forward to seeing what we can do."

Co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour and PGA Tour, the Genesis Scottish Open has become one of the strongest fields outside of the four major championships, serving as a key final test before The Open.

Fans attending this year's tournament can also enjoy the popular Fringe by the Tee entertainment stage, with The Feeling and Toploader already confirmed as headline acts for Friday and Saturday respectively.

General Admission tickets are available from £35, while the new premium Thistle Club experience offers enhanced hospitality, private viewing areas and additional on-site benefits.