From McIlroy’s phone snatch to Siem’s drunken course records – the strangest golf stories of 2025 in review.
Golf is typically a sport known for its etiquette and quiet composure. But even in this refined world, bizarre and unexpected moments are bound to happen. From forgotten ball markers and drunken course records to a £10,000 bet to quit smoking, 2025 delivered some truly strange golf stories. Here’s our roundup of the year’s quirkiest moments.
Rory McIlroy confiscates a fan’s phone
Rory McIlroy is no stranger to hecklers, but during a practice round ahead of the Players Championship, he had enough. After a fan interrupted his swing, McIlroy walked over, demanded the fan’s phone, and took it with him down the fairway. While the phone was eventually returned, the fan was escorted out of the tournament.
Marcel Siem sets course record while drunk
Playing golf while intoxicated is usually a recipe for disaster – unless you’re Marcel Siem. In a podcast, the German pro revealed he once set a course record during the third round of the 2015 Pebble Beach Pro-Am despite being drunk. He even had to stop twice to vomit, yet still played one of the best rounds of his life.
Shane Lowry forgets to mark his ball at the US Open
It’s a mistake most amateurs can relate to, but rarely seen at the pro level. At the 2025 US Open, Shane Lowry picked up his ball on the 14th green without marking it, resulting in a penalty stroke. Already 14-over-par and out of contention, Lowry laughed off the blunder after his round.
McIlroy hits two balls at once
During the 2025 British Open, Rory McIlroy pulled off a shot even he couldn’t explain. While hitting from the rough on the 11th hole, a second ball unexpectedly flew out alongside his own. Most likely, a lost ball from a previous group was dislodged by his swing – not magic, but still a rare sight.
Charley Hull bets £10,000 to quit smoking
Quitting smoking is tough – even for elite athletes. In March, Charley Hull made a bold move to help herself quit.