Golfer Robert MacIntyre is facing significant backlash for his conduct during the first round of the Masters at Augusta National. The incident occurred at the par-5 15th hole on Thursday after MacIntyre hit two consecutive shots into the water, leading to a quadruple-bogey 9.
Following his first shot into the water, MacIntyre was seen making an obscene gesture with his middle finger, a clear violation of the club's strict decorum. His frustration continued later when he slammed his club into the ground. He finished the round at 8-over par, putting him in danger of missing the cut.
The 29-year-old Scottish professional, currently ranked eighth in the world, is known for his temper, having broken a putter in a tournament earlier this year. While a top player, such behavior is heavily frowned upon at Augusta, with speculation he may face a formal reprimand from tournament officials. MacIntyre is scheduled to tee off for his second round at 10:19 a.m. ET.