Rory McIlroy, the four-time major champion and world No. 2 golfer, made headlines this week at The Players Championship—not just for his stellar opening round of 67, but for a viral moment involving a fan’s phone. During a practice round on Tuesday at TPC Sawgrass, McIlroy was heckled by University of Texas golfer Luke Potter, who referenced a wayward shot from the 2011 Masters. In response, McIlroy calmly approached Potter’s group, requested to see a spectator’s phone, and walked off with it in hand.
The incident, captured in a clip that has since gone viral on social media, occurred after McIlroy’s tee shot. According to reports, the phone belonged to Potter’s teammate, and McIlroy returned it shortly after. Potter, who was at the event celebrating his victory at the Hayt Collegiate tournament earlier that week, was ejected from the course for violating the PGA Tour’s fan code of conduct, which prohibits rude or inappropriate behavior.
“I just made a mistake, and I take ownership for it,” Potter said in a statement reported by Golf Channel. “I apologize for it. It’s a good learning experience.” The University of Texas men’s golf team has been contacted for further comment on Potter’s behalf.
McIlroy, unfazed by the disruption, declined to elaborate when asked about the encounter on Thursday. “No, you can’t,” he quipped with a laugh, brushing off a reporter’s question. Instead, he let his clubs do the talking, carding a 6-under-par 67 in the first round—just one stroke off the early lead. The 2019 Players Championship winner is now in prime position to claim the PGA Tour’s flagship event for a second time.
The PGA Tour is reviewing the incident and has been contacted for comment. For now, McIlroy remains focused on the task ahead as he continues his pursuit of another title at TPC Sawgrass.