MORE than 60,000 golf fans are expected to line the fairways at The Renaissance Club to watch some of the sport’s top stars battle it out for the Genesis Scottish Open title this week.

East Lothian is the venue for Scotland’s national open for the seventh consecutive year.

Stars of the sport including Xander Schauffele, Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of Rory McIlroy, who was crowned champion 12 months ago.

Robert MacIntyre will lead home hopes after finishing runner-up in 2023, while East Lothian’s Grant Forrest is also among the field.

The tournament teed off this morning (Thursday) and a champion will be crowned on Sunday.

Each of the stars will be hoping to take momentum from the competition into the latest major of the season, The Open, next weekend.

Aside from the golf, other entertainment includes Fringe by the Tee – a partnership formed between the tournament and North Berwick’s Fringe by the Sea.

Jamie Baker, East Lothian Council’s service manager for economic development, said: “It’s a real privilege to have such a prestigious tournament return to East Lothian.

“Last year’s nail-biting finish at The Renaissance Club was unforgettable and I have no doubt this year’s tournament will also delight golf fans.

“The Genesis Scottish Open raises the profile of East Lothian – Scotland’s Golf Coast – to the thousands who attend and to the massive global TV audience, many of whom then book to come and play on our world-class courses and enjoy all the hospitality that East Lothian has to offer.

“The tournament and its ongoing benefits are a huge boost to our local economy.

“Good luck to all of the golfers taking part and I hope every spectator has a fantastic time here in East Lothian.”