Golf has had some of the funniest moments when it comes to the golf ball and the spectators. In 2014, Rory McIlroy‘s tee shot at the Tour Championship landed in a spectator’s pocket. Later, in 2024, it was the ball that was stirred with the drink of the spectators after Adam Schenk‘s approach shot at the Pete Dye Stadium. But in 2025, it has a different story to narrate. With just four months to the schedule, another dangerous incident took place on the course, this time in Mexico, at LIV Golf.

So, what happened was that Joaquin Niemann was showcasing a strong comeback after being 5 strokes behind the leader in the first round at the $25 million LIV Golf Mexico. But his aggressive attempt to come back landed on the spectator. Niemann was under 1 at that time, shot from the tee, but the ball, instead of the fairway, chose the ropes and ended up hitting the fan on his thigh. The bruised fan was obviously in discomfort, but the golfer left no piece unturned to apologize for his mistake.

TorqueGC shared a post updating about the incident with a bruised image of a fan and a ball with the words “SORRY” on it with a smiling face. After the accident, Niemann apologized and shook hands with the fan. The caption wrote, “He’s okay 🙏🏽 And it was a lucky bounce to the middle of the fairway 😂.” Despite the deflection of the ball, the golfer was lucky enough to get the ball back on the fairway.

Niemann then continued with his round and found a comfortable shot to reach the greens. Well, the luck seems to be in favor of the four-time LIV Golf winner. But away from all his victories, the coming few weeks will be crucial as his major appearance is at stake.

LIV Golf pro’s major appearance at stake

“It’s one of my goals to qualify for the majors,” is what Niemann said after his 17-under victory at the Singapore event. With two victories under his belt this season so far, he has already played in the first major of the season and had a respectable T29 finish. But away from that, he is still in danger of staying out of the roster at the US Open. You see, the exemption is the only option available for Niemann to play at Oakmont.

As per the recent exception terms, one of the top-3 golfers on individual standing will get an exemption at the US Open. The Chilean is currently in the lead with 6.66 points over Sergio Garcia. So, it will be crucial for him to continue playing the same until the exemption. Niemann had his best finish at the US Open in 2020, which was T23. However, he missed the opportunity to improve it last year, and this year, it all depends on his performance. The Chilean, for his attempt to qualify, seems optimistic as he shared, “I feel like I’ve just got to keep doing what I’m doing, and I feel like I’ll be all right.” 

With luck in favor and fans supporting him despite the bruises, can the golfer qualify for the US Open this year? What are your thoughts on it? Share with us in the comments below.