From McIlroy’s phone incident to Siem’s drunk course record—2025 delivered some truly bizarre golf moments.
Golf is often seen as a serious sport, known for its etiquette and quiet atmosphere. But even in this refined world, strange and hilarious moments are bound to happen. From forgotten ball markers to drunken course records and high-stakes bets to quit smoking, 2025 had its fair share of oddities. Here’s our roundup of the most curious golf moments of the year.
Rory McIlroy confiscates a fan’s phone
Rory McIlroy is no stranger to fan interruptions, but during a practice round ahead of the Players Championship, he had enough. After a fan shouted during 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 sets course record while drunk
Playing golf under the influence is generally frowned upon, but Marcel Siem turned it into a record-breaking performance. In a podcast, the German pro revealed he once set three course records while intoxicated, including during the third round of the 2015 Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Despite taking two breaks to vomit, 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 mistake more common among amateurs than seasoned pros. 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 was able to laugh off the blunder afterward.
McIlroy hits two balls at once
During the 2025 British Open, Rory McIlroy pulled off a bizarre feat. While hitting from the rough on the 11th hole, a second ball unexpectedly flew out with his shot. The likely explanation? A lost ball from earlier in the tournament 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.