Rory McIlroy was the latest golfer to attempt the famous water-skip shot during a practice round at the Masters on Tuesday, and the four-time major champion found a way to incorporate Mother Nature into his act.
With a large gallery of fans watching, McIlroy skipped a shot across the pond at the par-3 16th hole at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga. Unlike previous skip shots we have seen during practice rounds leading up to the Masters, McIlroy’s included a very unique obstacle.
There was a turtle sunbathing on the opposite side of the pond, and McIlroy skipped his shot right over the little guy.

Best seat in the house to watch Rory McIlroy's skip shot on No. 16. #themasters pic.twitter.com/bSOjZjvyeF
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 8, 2025
McIlroy is lucky he missed the turtle, or PETA probably would have tried to storm the gates at Magnolia Lane. Or, maybe Rory is so good that he knew he was going to bounce the ball right over the turtle’s shell.
We have seen more impressive skip shots at the 16th hole over the years, but McIlroy certainly gets extra points for creativity.