Rory McIlroy Faces Fine After Smashing Tee Box Marker in Frustration at 2025 U.S. Open
OAKMONT, Pa. — Rory McIlroy, the World No. 2 golfer, is likely to face a fine from the United States Golf Association (USGA) following an outburst during the second round of the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club on Friday, June 13. McIlroy, visibly frustrated after a wayward tee shot on the par-4 17th hole, took his anger out on a tee box marker, smashing it with his driver in a moment that quickly went viral.
The incident occurred as McIlroy, who was battling to make the cut, sent his drive into a greenside bunker on the drivable 17th. In a rare display of frustration, the four-time major champion slammed his club into the tee marker, splitting it in a manner likened to “Bruce Lee karate-chopping a 2×4,” according to NBC Sports. Earlier in the round, McIlroy had also tossed an iron down the 12th fairway after a mishit approach shot, further highlighting his struggles on the demanding Oakmont course.
Despite the outbursts, McIlroy managed to birdie his final hole, finishing the second round with a 2-over 72 to make the cut with a shot to spare, sitting at 7-over for the tournament. However, his actions have sparked controversy, with some fans and commentators on X calling for harsher penalties, including suspension, labeling the behavior “disgraceful” and a poor example for younger viewers. One post stated, “My kids are happily watching the US Open and just saw Rory McIlroy destroy the tee marker. They are scarred for life, asked me to turn it off.”
The USGA has not yet announced the specific fine or disciplinary action, but sources indicate McIlroy will likely receive a bill for the damaged tee marker. The incident adds to a challenging week for McIlroy, who has struggled with Oakmont’s punishing rough and narrow fairways, hitting only 15 of 28 fairways over two rounds. His performance comes on the heels of completing the career Grand Slam at the Masters two months ago, though he admitted post-round that finding motivation has been difficult since that milestone.
McIlroy, who declined media interviews for the sixth consecutive major round, now faces the task of regrouping for the weekend as he aims to maintain his streak of six straight top-10 finishes at the U.S. Open. While he avoided disqualification and secured a spot for the final two rounds, the incident has drawn significant attention, with some arguing it overshadows his resilience in making the cut under pressure.
As the golf world awaits the USGA’s decision, the focus remains on whether McIlroy can channel his emotions and navigate Oakmont’s challenges to climb the leaderboard. For now, the smashed tee marker serves as a stark reminder of the intense pressure and frustration that even the game’s top players face on one of golf’s toughest stages.
