Awkward Rory McIlroy exchange with Hollywood star convinced fans he didn't know who he was

Golfing icon Rory McIlroy once met Hollywood star Tom Holland, and didn't appear to know who the Spider-Man actor was. McIlroy is currently gearing up for the Ryder Cup, which is to be held in New York later this month. The Northern Irish superstar has been getting his practice in recently at the Irish Open and playing at the BMW PGA in Surrey. However, this time last year, McIlroy was participating at the BMW PGA Championship Celebrity Pro-AM, where an awkward encounter with Holland, 29, unfolded.

The pair had a slightly uncomfortable exchange on the practice range in Wentworth, with the Masters champion seemingly confused by Holland's decision to approach him. McIlroy, 36, was reaching into his golf bag when he was interrupted by the actor who has spearheaded many blockbuster movies, including several Marvel Studios films. It began as Holland politely held out his hand to greet the golfer.

"Hello mate, sorry I'm Tom," Holland said, as McIlroy appeared slightly hesitant to extend his hand in return. However, the Holywood-born star eventually did shake hands with the Hollywood icon.

"Hi Tom, how are you doing?" McIlroy said. Clearly starstruck, Holland then replied: "It's a pleasure." The awkward conversation continued, with McIlroy's question of "You alright?" met with: "Yeah good man, how are you?".

McIlroy claimed he was "good" before the pair eventually turned to hitting practice shots. The bizarre exchange between one of the planet's biggest actors and most recognisable golfers left fans stunned, with some taking to social media, convinced that McIlroy had no idea who Holland was.

One fan took to X saying: "When you shake hands with Peter Parker and will never know" referencing Holland's most famous role. While McIlroy may have been none the wiser, one golfer who did recognise the star was Tommy Fleetwood as he teamed up with the actor and his two twin brothers, Harry and Sam, to win the Pro-Am event.

Holland boasts a 2.9 handicap, and helped the foursome to a combined winning score of 31 under par. He has previously appeared at the event alongside Irish legend and former Ryder Cup captain Padraig Harrington.

McIlroy did not take part in the celebrity edition this year. However, his performance at Wentworth has given him plenty of encouragement ahead of the Ryder Cup.

The Northern Irishman landed 17 birdies over his first three rounds but was left to curse some ropey play for failing to make it into title contention for the second successive week. He eventually finished on 12 under tied for 20th, signing off with a birdie and an eagle in his last two holes, with the competition being won by Sweden's Alex Noren.

Speaking on his form 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."