From McIlroy’s phone snatch to Siem’s drunken course record – a look back at golf’s most bizarre moments of 2025.
Golf is often seen as a serious sport, steeped in etiquette and calm. But even in this refined world, strange and hilarious moments can occur. From forgotten ball markers to a £10,000 bet to quit smoking, 2025 delivered its fair share of oddities. Here are some of the quirkiest golf moments of the year.
Rory McIlroy snatches fan’s phone
Rory McIlroy is no stranger to hecklers, but during a practice round ahead of the Players Championship, he had enough. When a fan interrupted his routine, McIlroy demanded the man’s phone and walked off with it across the fairway. While the fan eventually got his phone back, he 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 US Open, Shane Lowry made a rare blunder more common among amateurs. On the 14th hole, he picked up his ball without marking it, resulting in a penalty stroke. Already 14-over and out of contention, Lowry laughed off the mistake after the round.
McIlroy hits two balls at once
At 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 lost ball from earlier in the week was dislodged by his swing.
Charley Hull’s £10,000 no-smoking bet
Quitting smoking is tough—even for elite athletes. In March, Charley Hull made a bold move to quit.