University of Texas golfer Luke Potter has apologized to Rory McIlroy after an incident during Tuesday's practice round at The Players Championship that led to his removal from TPC Sawgrass.

The incident occurred after Potter, fresh off winning the John Hayt Invitational at Sawgrass Country Club, made a comment about McIlroy's 2011 Masters performance when the World No.2 hit a poor shot on the 18th hole. According to witnesses, Potter said "just like the 2011 Masters" after McIlroy's shot.

McIlroy responded by approaching Potter, taking his phone, and walking away. Potter was subsequently asked to leave the premises, though his phone was later returned.

When asked about the incident during his Thursday press conference following his opening round 67, McIlroy declined to comment, stating "I'm very happy with my 67 today."

Potter later expressed regret in an interview with Golf Channel: "I just made a mistake, and I take ownership for it. I apologize for it. That's about all that needs to be said. It's just a good learning experience."

University of Texas men's golf head coach John Fields confirmed that Potter has written letters of apology to:

• Rory McIlroy
• PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan
• PGA Tour University director Brendan von Doehren
• UNF coach Scott Schroeder

Potter, currently ranked 60th in the World Amateur Golf Ranking, transferred to Texas from Arizona State University in 2024. He was previously the top-ranked junior in his class, which included notable players like Nick Dunlap, Luke Clanton, and Caleb Surratt.

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