From McIlroy’s phone incident to Siem’s drunken record round – a look back at golf’s quirkiest moments of 2025.
Golf is often seen as a serious sport, steeped in etiquette and tradition. But even in such a composed environment, bizarre and humorous moments can occur. From forgotten ball markers to a £10,000 bet to quit smoking and record-setting rounds under the influence, 2025 brought its fair share of oddities. Here are some of the most curious golf moments of the year.
Rory McIlroy confiscates a fan’s phone
Rory McIlroy is no stranger to rowdy fans, but during a practice round ahead of the Players Championship, he had enough. After a fan shouted during his swing, McIlroy demanded the fan’s phone and walked off with it across the fairway. While the phone was eventually returned, the fan was ejected from the tournament.
Marcel Siem sets course record while drunk
Playing golf drunk is generally frowned upon, but Marcel Siem turned it into a legendary tale. In a podcast, the German pro revealed he once set three course records while intoxicated, including one during the third round of the 2015 Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Despite two vomiting breaks, he called it one of the best rounds of his life.
Shane Lowry forgets to mark his ball
At the 2025 US Open, Shane Lowry made a rare pro blunder. On the 14th hole, he picked up his ball without marking it, resulting in a penalty stroke. Already 14-over-par and out of contention, Lowry laughed off the mistake after the round.
McIlroy hits two balls with one swing
During the 2025 British Open, McIlroy pulled off an unintentional magic trick. From the rough on the 11th hole, he struck his ball – and a second one emerged. The likely explanation: a lost ball from earlier in the week was dislodged by his swing.
Charley Hull’s £10,000 bet to quit smoking
Quitting smoking is tough, even for elite athletes. Charley Hull found motivation through a high-stakes wager.