Rory McIlroy took college golfer's phone after heckling moment at the Players Championship

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

A University of Texas golfer was removed from the grounds at TPC Sawgrass during a Players Championship practice round on Tuesday at TPC Sawgrass in a moment that has since gone viral on social media involving PGA Tour star Rory McIlroy.

Luke Potter, a junior in the Longhorns’ golf program, went viral after McIlroy walked over to him after the young golfer seemed to say something to the four-time major champion just after his drive went into the water on Hole 18. 

While it’s unknown what Potter said, McIlroy clearly didn’t like it, as he immediately turned around and walked over to him. McIlroy then asked for Potter’s cell phone and took it. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Rory McIlroy tees off on the seventh hole during the first round of the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fl., on Thursday, March 13, 2025. (Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union)

McIlroy started to walk with Potter’s phone, seemingly looking for whatever video he believed Potter had taken during that moment. 

Golf.com reported that Potter referenced McIlroy’s 2011 Masters, where he infamously had a meltdown during the final round on Sunday that year, ultimately shooting an 80 and losing the tournament to Charl Schwartzel. 

As McIlroy looked through Potter’s phone, the Texas golfer was reportedly escorted off the course. His phone was later given back to him. 

TIGER WOODS, VANESSA TRUMP HAVE BEEN DATING SINCE LAST YEAR: REPORT

"Look, I just made a mistake, and I take ownership for it," Potter said, according to the Golf Channel, about what had happened with McIlroy. "I apologize for it. That’s about all that needs to be