The 36-year-old has played only five DP World Tour events – the last in 2023 – and teed off less than 24 hours after finishing second in the Tartan Tour’s Duddingston Classic having received a sponsor’s invite earlier this week.
He had a remarkable back nine at Carnoustie, where an eagle at the par-five 12th was the catalyst to play five holes in six under par.
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With a solitary birdie on the front nine he finished with a blemish-free seven under.
“It’s easy to get yourself up for this event. I played Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday [at Duddingston] but I’ve played a lot here in the past,” said Stewart on his lack of a practice round.
“Just delighted to be able to be part of the event. I feel right at home with links golf. I just played really nice all day.”
The tournament is played over three courses – Carnoustie, Kingsbarns and St Andrews with the Old Course hosting the final day – and also incorporates a team event with a number of former sports stars and celebrities paired with the professionals.
Matt Fitzpatrick, who arrived in Scotland off the back of his fourth win of the year at the Open de France, shot a four-under 68 at Carnoustie, with Ryder Cup team-mate Tommy Fleetwood two under at the same course.
Five-time major winner Brooks Koepka was three under after a 69 at Carnoustie, while defending champion and home favourite Bob MacIntyre was one under at the same course.
Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter, on their first DP World Tour appearances in almost four years, shot one under at St Andrews and level par at Carnoustie respectively with fellow LIV golfer Bubba Watson also level at Carnoustie.
Watch the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship played over the Old Course at St Andrews, Carnoustie Golf Links and Kingsbarn Golf Links on Sky Sports Golf this Friday from midday.
