From McIlroy’s phone snatch to Marcel Siem’s drunken course records – a look back at golf’s quirkiest moments of 2025.
Golf is known for its etiquette and seriousness, but even this refined sport has its share of bizarre moments. From a forgotten ball marker to a £10,000 bet to quit smoking and a record-breaking round under the influence, 2025 delivered some unforgettable oddities. Here are the strangest golf moments 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 interrupted his shot, McIlroy demanded the man’s phone and walked off with it across the fairway. The phone was returned, but the fan was ejected from the tournament.
Marcel Siem sets course record while drunk
Playing golf while drunk is usually a recipe for disaster – unless you’re 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
At the 2025 US Open, Shane Lowry made a rare pro blunder. On the 14th hole, he picked up his ball without marking it, earning a penalty stroke. Already 14-over-par and out of contention, Lowry laughed it off after the round.
McIlroy hits two balls at once
During the 2025 British Open, McIlroy pulled off a bizarre feat. While hitting from the rough on the 11th hole, a second ball unexpectedly flew out with his shot. Most likely, a lost ball was dislodged by his swing – not magic, despite appearances.
Charley Hull’s £10,000 no-smoking bet
Quitting smoking is tough – even for elite athletes. In March, Charley Hull made a bold bet with fellow pro Ryan Evans: