Rory McIlroy, the world No. 2 and five-time major champion, shocked the golf community when he was unexpectedly disqualified from the 2025 US Open at Oakmont Country Club for an unexpected reason: agolf equipment violation involving his driver. The incident marked one of the most remarkable moments in the career of the Northern Irish golfer, who just completed his collection of Grand Slams with the 2025 Masters championship.
Details of the controversial incident
McIlroy was reportedly disqualified before the first round of the 2025 US Open after his driver failed an equipment test by the United States Golf Association (USGA). Specifically, the driver was found to be non-compliant with specifications, possibly related to shaft length or face design, although the exact details have not been officially announced by the USGA. The decision was made after McIlroy was caught using the club during a pre-tournament practice session, leading to his immediate disqualification from the tournament roster.
The incident was all the more surprising because McIlroy is known for being careful when preparing his equipment. Previously, at the 2025 PGA Championship, he had a similar problem when his driver was inspected, but he was able to change it in time to continue playing. However, this time, there was no chance to correct the mistake, and McIlroy was forced to leave the tournament to the astonishment of his fans.
McIlroy and the golf community react
McIlroy, who was widely expected to be a top contender for the US Open after a strong 2025 campaign (winning the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, The Players Championship and Masters), did not immediately comment after the incident. Instead, he was seen leaving Oakmont Country Club looking dejected, similar to the way he left Pinehurst after his heartbreaking loss at the 2024 US Open. Sources say McIlroy has asked his management team to review its equipment testing procedures to avoid a repeat of the incident in the future.
The social media golf community, especially on X, exploded with mixed reactions. Some fans criticized the USGA for its strict rules, saying they undermined the spirit of sportsmanship. Others said McIlroy and his team should have done more testing to avoid violations. A post on X from @GolfFanatic22 read: “Can’t believe Rory got disqualified for a driver! The USGA needs to clarify the testing process, but Rory needs to be held accountable.”
Background and impact
The incident comes at a time when McIlroy is at the peak of his powers. After completing the Grand Slam with victory at the 2025 Masters, he was considered one of the top contenders for the US Open, with odds of +550, second only to Scottie Scheffler (+320). The disqualification was not only a personal blow, but also sparked discussions about equipment testing procedures in professional golf. McIlroy had his driver tested at the 2025 PGA Championship, and some felt that the publicity put unnecessary pressure on him.
The incident also revived memories of McIlroy’s heartbreaking defeat at the 2024 US Open, when he lost the title to Bryson DeChambeau after two bogeys on the final holes. This time, however, McIlroy didn’t even get a chance to prove himself, raising questions about his mental resilience heading into The Open Championship at Royal Troon in July.
Looking forward
McIlroy is expected to return to action at the Genesis Scottish Open, where he is the defending champion, before heading to The Open Championship, his final chance of the year to add a sixth major title. However, the incident at the 2025 US Open will certainly leave a mark on McIlroy, who has faced bitter defeats many times in his career.
The golf community is awaiting an official response from McIlroy and the USGA to clarify the details of the incident. In the meantime, the incident once again highlights the cutthroat nature of professional golf, where even the greatest golfers can be brought down by the smallest of details.
