Rory McIlroy was involved in a bizarre incident at the US Open when a spectator appeared to try and pick up his ball after a wayward shot. The moment occurred on the fourth hole as McIlroy's shot from the rough hit a cart path and landed near a group of fans.
Fan Reaction
One fan bent over and seemingly touched or briefly picked up the ball, causing fellow spectators to yell "no" in unison. McIlroy appeared unaware of the situation, but the crowd's reaction was captured on footage.
The incident sparked a strong reaction online, with many calling for the spectator to be banned from future events. One user on X said: "If you pick up a golf ball at a golf tournament, not only should be kicked off the premises, but never be allowed to attend another in your life." Another added: "Who at a golf tournament doesn’t know you can’t pick up a golf ball?"
USPGA Statement
The USPGA released a statement clarifying that McIlroy's ball was not picked up. "Right after McIlroy’s second shot on the 4th hole came to rest, it appeared on the broadcast that a fan was about to pick it up when the camera moved away. However, based on the testimony of fans and a review of the available video, his ball was not lifted. The fan stopped just before picking it up and McIlroy played the ball as it lay."
McIlroy was largely unaffected by the incident, making par on the hole and finishing the first round with a one-under-par 69.
