Golf: Wayward Rory McIlroy hits his own dad with stray Masters shot

Golf star Rory McIlroy didn't get off on the right foot at the US Masters at Augusta National.

In fact, the Northern Irishman capped a sequence of three straight bogeys by striking father Gerry, on the leg with an errant approach shot on the seventh hole.

Gerry McIlroy was unharmed and even quick with a joke, telling reporters, "I should ask for an autograph".

McIlroy Junior has unintentionally provided a source of comedy with some of his recent misfires.

Last month, McIlroy took on water at the world matchplay championship event in Texas.

The four-time Major champion's tee shot on the fifth hole sailed wide left at the Austin Country Club, bounded off the cart path and bounced over a fence, before resting in a nearby swimming pool.

Reuters