Tensions were high at Quail Hollow during the PGA Championship, with even top-tier golfers struggling to stay composed on a rain-soaked course. With only a narrow cutline in play, the field was on edge. Rory McIlroy barely made it through at +1, while others like Shane Lowry weren’t so lucky. Despite a valiant effort in Round 2, the 2019 Open Champion finished two-over-par, missing the weekend by just one shot.
But it wasn’t just Lowry’s score that caught attention, it was the way he reacted to a bizarre and unlucky moment on the short par-4 eighth. After seemingly hitting a perfect drive, his ball ended up plugged in an old pitch mark. Frustrated, Lowry called for a rules official, hoping for free relief.
According to ESPN, the official denied his request since the pitch mark wasn’t his own. Lowry’s response? A meltdown that ended with him angrily gesturing with his middle finger, caught on camera and now making headlines worldwide.
Shane Lowry was not happy with this ruling at Quail Hollow. 😬
More: https://t.co/r8erBXsuu0pic.twitter.com/fed7fsOvO5
— Golf Digest (@GolfDigest) May 17, 2025
“(Expletive) this place,” Lowry was also heard muttering, after chunking his second shot and missing a par-saving putt. His frustration boiled over, and now he’s expected to face disciplinary action from the PGA Tour. He’s not alone either, fellow Ryder Cup teammate Tyrrell Hatton also launched a foul-mouthed rant after a poor tee shot on the 18th, yelling “piece of (expletive)” on live TV.
Shane Lowry is not enjoying Quail Hollow pic.twitter.com/04OWw4VXzm
— Fried Egg Golf (@fried_egg_golf) May 16, 2025
The broadcast teams scrambled to contain the outbursts, but it’s clear the pressure at Quail Hollow is testing even the most seasoned pros. As of now, both Lowry and Hatton are staring at fines for conduct violations.
Meanwhile, fans are left with a reminder that even golfers with $28 million in career earnings aren’t immune to the frustrations this brutal sport delivers.
Related: PGA Tour Golfer Surprisingly Withdraws Mid-Round During Championship
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