From McIlroy’s phone snatch to Marcel Siem’s drunken record round—2025 delivered some of golf’s oddest moments.
Golf is known for its etiquette and quiet intensity, but even this refined sport has its share of bizarre moments. From forgotten ball markers to a £10,000 bet to quit smoking and even record-setting rounds under the influence—2025 was full of surprises. Here’s a look back at the quirkiest golf stories of the year.
Rory McIlroy confiscates a fan’s phone
Rory McIlroy is no stranger to hecklers, but during a practice round at 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 while intoxicated is usually a recipe for disaster—but not for 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 while heavily hungover. Despite two breaks to vomit, he delivered 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 pros. He 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 the round.
McIlroy hits two balls with one swing
During the 2025 British Open, McIlroy pulled off a shot even he couldn’t explain. From the rough on the 11th hole, he struck his ball—only to see a second ball fly out as well. Most likely, a lost ball had been buried nearby and was dislodged by his swing.
Charley Hull’s £10,000 anti-smoking bet
Quitting smoking is tough—even for elite athletes. Charley Hull made it easier by placing a high-stakes bet.