From McIlroy’s phone snatch to Siem’s drunken course record – we look back at golf’s quirkiest moments of 2025.
Golf is known for its etiquette and calm demeanor, but even this refined sport has its share of bizarre moments. From forgotten ball markers to a £10,000 bet to quit smoking and a record round played under the influence, 2025 delivered some truly odd golf stories. Here’s our roundup of the strangest moments of the year.
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 demanded the man’s phone and walked off with it across the fairway. While the phone was eventually returned, the fan was escorted out of the tournament.
Marcel Siem’s drunken course record
Playing drunk is usually a recipe for disaster, but not for Marcel Siem. The German pro revealed on a podcast that 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 played one of the best rounds of his life.
Shane Lowry forgets to mark his ball
At the 2025 U.S. Open, Shane Lowry made a rare blunder. He picked up his ball on the 14th hole without marking it, resulting in a penalty stroke. Already 14 over par and out of contention, Lowry laughed off the mistake after his round.
McIlroy hits two balls with one swing
During the 2025 British Open, McIlroy pulled off a bizarre feat. While hitting from the rough on the 11th hole, two balls flew out. The likely explanation? A previously lost ball was dislodged by his swing.
Charley Hull’s £10,000 no-smoking bet
Quitting smoking is tough, even for elite athletes. To motivate herself, Charley Hull made a bold wager in March. She promised fellow pro Ryan