From McIlroy’s phone snatch to Siem’s drunken record – a look back at the quirkiest golf moments of 2025.
Golf is often seen as a serious sport, defined by etiquette and calm. But even in this refined world, bizarre and humorous moments find their way onto the course. From forgotten ball markers to drunken course records and high-stakes bets to quit smoking, 2025 delivered its fair share of oddities. Here are some of the most curious golf stories of the year.
Rory McIlroy snatches a 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 shouted during his swing, McIlroy demanded the man’s phone and walked off with it across the fairway. The fan eventually got his phone back, but not before being 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 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
It’s a mistake every amateur can relate to—but rarely seen among pros. At the 2025 U.S. Open, Shane Lowry picked up his ball on the 14th green without marking it, earning a penalty stroke. Already 14-over and out of contention, Lowry laughed off the blunder after the round.
McIlroy hits two balls at once
During the 2025 British Open, McIlroy pulled off a bizarre shot. While hitting from the rough on the 11th hole, two balls flew out—one his own, the other likely a lost ball buried in the grass. A magic trick? Not quite, but certainly a memorable moment.