From ball kicks to rule violations and slow-play warnings – we look back at the quirkiest and most memorable moments of the year.
Not only in private games do mishaps and rule violations happen on the golf course, but professional golf also frequently sees intriguing situations involving the rulebook. As 2025 comes to a close, we review some of the biggest blunders and most interesting breaches of rules in professional golf. This year presented several remarkable scenarios where players sometimes faced new situations that led to varying consequences from officials.
Bud Cauley Accidentally Steps on Ball – No Penalty Thanks to Rule 9.6
On the final day of the 2025 Players Championship, amidst a lengthy thunderstorm delay, a bizarre scene unfolded: Bud Cauley accidentally stepped on teammate Lucas Glover’s ball. Golf rules immediately clarified the situation – under Rule 9.6, ball movement caused by an outside influence is penalty-free, so Glover was allowed to replace his ball at its original spot. This incident highlights the differing rules: balls moved by natural forces are usually played from their new location, while balls already placed on the green are always replaced to their original position, regardless of the cause.
Shane Lowry Makes Rare Rule Mistake at US Open – Takes Double Bogey in Good Spirits
During the second round of the 2025 US Open at Oakmont Country Club, Shane Lowry committed a rare rules error: on the 14th green, he lifted his ball without marking it first – a clear breach of Rule 14.1, resulting in a penalty stroke and turning the hole into a double bogey. Lowry, already well over par and eventually missing the cut, took the error humorously, calling it “one of the dumbest things” he’s done. Fellow competitor Rory McIlroy laughed along. Lowry then marked the ball properly, continued play, and emphasized his determination despite the mishap.
Other Notable Moments in 2025 Golf Rule Breaches
At the Amundi German Masters, US pro Hannah Gregg self-disqualified after signing an incorrect scorecard showing a lower score than actually made on the 14th hole, which under Rule 3.3b(3) mandates disqualification once confirmed. Gregg discovered the mistake after leaving and promptly informed the tour, receiving praise for her honesty on social media.
Slow play came under scrutiny at the British Open 2025, with complaints about extremely slow rounds and warnings issued to players like US Open winner J.J. Spaun for exceeding time limits per stroke, increasing pressure as the cut loomed.
Marcel Siem faced disqualification on the DP World Tour after playing a provisional ball improperly and signing an incorrect scorecard, a harsh reminder of the unforgiving nature of golf regulations even for seasoned professionals.