There aren’t many people on the planet who know what it’s like to be Adam Scott right now.

In April, Scott became the first Australian to win the US Masters and he’s hardly stopped winning since.

Victories in the Australian Masters and Australian PGA were followed by success for Australia alongside Jason Day at the World Cup last weekend.

It’s the sort of form most players will never approach in their careers.

But Rory McIlroy understands.

More to the point, the one-time world No.1 wants to renew his membership in the elite club.

“He’s doing what I did last year,” McIlroy said after his first round in the Australian Open on Thursday.

“It’s not like I haven’t been in that position before. It’s just what I’m trying to get back to.

“I was delighted to see him win the Masters and he’s just continued from there.

“He’s always had great potential. It’s good to see.”

That said, when Scott is on song, McIlroy admits there are few who can go with him.

Just as he was on early on Thursday morning when he sank birdies in his opening six holes – leaving McIlroy most impressed as he ate breakfast.

“I felt like I was in neutral (by) not making birdies, and shooting three-under,” McIlroy said.

“It’s never a surprise to see Adam up there at the top (of the leaderboard).”

The early birds will be out to make inroads on Adam Scott’s first-round lead at the Australian Open golf this morning.

Scott’s enjoyed a three-shot advantage overnight after breaking the Royal Sydney course record yesterday with a blistering 10-under-par 62.

Rory McIlroy is among those teeing off early today and is seven shots adrift of Scott, who begins his second round just after midday AEST.