Fan picks up Rory McIlroy’s ball after wayward shot in wild US Open scene

Rory McIlroy started his 2026 U.S. Open campaign at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club with a 1-under 69 during Thursday's opening round. This performance helped him rise in PGA Tour history. During the first round on the fourth hole, a fan attempted to take McIlroy's ball as a souvenir after he hit a wayward shot. The incident occurred during a wild scene at the tournament as the ball landed far off the mark.