Scottish golf star Bob MacIntyre has shared a heartfelt reflection on what it feels like to be a “tourist” in his own homeland, admitting that travel and time away have only deepened his appreciation for Scotland’s beauty and spirit.
The Ryder Cup hero, who hails from Oban, has spent much of the year competing around the world — from the PGA Tour in America to major championships across Europe. But whenever he returns home, MacIntyre says he rediscovers the magic of Scotland all over again.
“Every time I come back, I see things differently,” MacIntyre said. “When you’re away so much, you realize how special it is here — the scenery, the people, the pace of life. It’s easy to forget that when you’re caught up in the grind.”
The 29-year-old has made no secret of his love for his roots, often speaking proudly about his hometown and his family’s influence on his grounded personality. Now, with international success under his belt, he says he’s learning to experience Scotland with new eyes — not as the local boy who grew up there, but as someone who can truly appreciate its beauty.
“Sometimes I feel like a tourist myself,” he laughed. “I’ll go for drives or hikes to places I never bothered with growing up. It’s like discovering a whole new country that was always right in front of me.”
MacIntyre has also encouraged others, especially younger Scots, to take pride in their homeland and not take its treasures for granted.
“People travel thousands of miles to see what we have here — the Highlands, the islands, the lochs, the golf courses,” he said. “We’re lucky, and sometimes it takes stepping away to really see that.”
As one of Scotland’s most beloved modern golfers, MacIntyre’s comments strike a chord with fans who admire not just his talent but his humility and authenticity. While many athletes lose touch with their roots, MacIntyre seems more connected to his than ever — a man who has traveled the world, only to find that home is still the most extraordinary destination of all.
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