Rory McIlroy had an encounter with Hollywood star Tom Holland in 2024 but many fans were left convinced that the Northern Irish icon had no idea who the Spider-Man actor was
Tom Holland and Rory McIlroy meet for the first time(Image: Instagram)
Golfing legend Rory McIlroy once had a rather awkward encounter with Hollywood’s Spider-Man actor, Tom Holland. As McIlroy prepares for the upcoming Ryder Cup in New York, he’s been honing his skills at the Irish Open and the BMW PGA in Surrey.
However, rewind to this time last year, and McIlroy was participating in the BMW PGA Championship Celebrity Pro-AM, where he crossed paths with Holland, 29.
The duo shared an uneasy exchange on the practice range in Wentworth, with the Masters champion seemingly puzzled by Holland’s decision to approach him.
The 36-year-old golfer was reaching into his golf bag when he was interrupted by the actor. Holland is known for his roles in numerous blockbuster films, including several Marvel Studios productions, while he’s also been tipped to be the new James Bond.
Holland initiated the interaction by extending his hand to greet the golfer. “Hello mate, sorry I’m Tom,” said Holland, as McIlroy seemed slightly reluctant to reciprocate the handshake.
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Nevertheless, the Holywood-born star eventually did shake hands with the Hollywood icon, reports the Express. “Hi Tom, how are you doing?” McIlroy responded. Clearly awestruck, Holland replied: “It’s a pleasure.”
The awkward chit-chat continued, with McIlroy’s question of “You alright?” being answered with: “Yeah good man, how are you?”.
McIlroy insisted he was “good” before the duo eventually moved on to practising their swings. The peculiar encounter between one of Hollywood’s biggest names and golf’s most recognisable faces left fans bewildered, with many flocking to social media, utterly convinced that McIlroy had absolutely no idea who Holland was.
Tom Holland is known for the Avengers series of films(Image: Getty)
One posted on X: “When you shake hands with Peter Parker and will never know” – a nod to Holland’s most iconic character.
While McIlroy might have remained oblivious, one golfer who certainly recognised the celebrity was Tommy Fleetwood as he joined forces with the actor and his twin siblings, Harry and Sam, to claim victory in the Pro-Am competition.
Holland possesses a 2.9 handicap, and assisted the quartet in achieving a combined triumph with a score of 31 under par. He has previously featured at the tournament alongside Irish legend and former Ryder Cup captain Padraig Harrington.
McIlroy opted out of the celebrity format this year. Nevertheless, his showing at Wentworth has provided him with considerable confidence heading into the Ryder Cup.
Rory McIlroy didn’t seem to recognise the Hollywood star(Image: Warren Little/Getty Images)
The Northern Irishman secured 17 birdies across his opening three rounds but was left frustrated by some sloppy shots that prevented him from challenging for the title for the second consecutive week.
He ultimately concluded on 12 under in a tie for 20th position, finishing with a birdie and an eagle on his final two holes, whilst Sweden’s Alex Noren claimed the championship.
Reflecting on his performance in Surrey, McIlroy said: “I played much better. And yeah, obviously a really nice way to sign off the week, last competitive round going into the Ryder Cup. So nice to finish on a high.”
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