Rory McIlroy finished at six over par at the US Open, where Joaquin Niemann was handed a two-shot penalty for throwing his club after a poor shot.

What happened at the US Open?

The Chilean star was punished for "serious misconduct" after hitting a quintuple-bogey nine on the sixth hole and launching his sand wedge in frustration on Thursday.

Niemann was informed of the penalty upon his return to the course on Friday, which saw the eventual nine strokes turn into 11.

Why it matters for Rory McIlroy

McIlroy's own words on reacting with anger on the course have resurfaced following this incident, where he discussed the behaviour after Patton Kizzie kicked his putter at the Valspar Championship last year.

He said: "It can be relatable, but at the same time, you want to try to set a proper example."

What comes next for golf behaviour?

Niemann admitted his behaviour was wrong but was still surprised by the severity of the punishment, saying "I feel like everybody had some, and it's never going to be anything major like two-shot penalty."

Despite this setback, Niemann responded brilliantly in the second round and equalled the lowest score at that time of five-under 65.

The US Open saw Wyndham Clark win the tournament, with Niemann finishing tied for seventh place at one-over, six shots ahead of McIlroy.

Clark has had some controversy of his own in the past, including being banned from the Oakmont Country Club in 2023 for smashing up lockers in the clubhouse after missing the cut.

The American was suspended and forced to donate to charity, cover repair costs and complete a behavioural improvement program to return to the fairways.

Rory McIlroy's thoughts on golf behaviour highlight the importance of setting a good example for young players, as the USGA cracks down on poor behaviour by professionals.

Niemann's penalty has sparked debate about the severity of punishments for misconduct on the golf course.

The US Open has seen its fair share of controversies, with players being penalized for their behaviour on and off the course.

Rory McIlroy's finish at the US Open was not his best, but his comments on golf behaviour have sparked an important conversation about the sport.

The golf world will be watching to see how players respond to the USGA's crackdown on poor behaviour, with Rory McIlroy leading the way in promoting positive behaviour on the course.