Married At First Sight groom Clint Rice has been making headlines for his stint on the controversial reality show, but now details from his past as a professional golfer have resurfaced – including an awkward incident at the US Open.

The 43-year-old former pro golfer found himself in an embarrassing situation when his clubs were confiscated while attempting to play a practice round at the prestigious tournament, as reported by the Sydney Morning Herald.

Rice, who was ranked No.1188 in the world at the time, had battled through local and sectional qualifying rounds and was considered one of the top alternates – meaning he had a chance to play if a spot became available.

Despite being informally told he could play a practice round at Chambers Bay, things took an awkward turn after just four holes.

Rice had been playing alongside 2006 US Open champion and fellow Aussie Geoff Ogilvy when a USGA official approached him and promptly stopped him from continuing.

In a humiliating moment, the official confiscated his clubs, forcing Rice to walk the remainder of the nine-hole course alongside Ogilvy – but without the chance to play.

USGA rules state that while alternates can use all the practice facilities, they are not allowed to play on the course unless officially given permission.

The organisation later confirmed that Rice had been previously given a document clearly stating that he had no playing privileges.

Ogilvy, who witnessed the incident firsthand, admitted he understood the rules but believed the situation was unfair to Rice.

‘It’s a bit silly if you’re not holding anybody up or interfering with their practice,’ Ogilvy said.

‘I’d get it if there were no spots available for players in the field, but that wasn’t the case here.’

Ogilvy revealed that Rice had simply asked to join him for the round, and since he was playing alone, he had no issue with it.

‘I get where the USGA is coming from, but surely the top few alternates should be able to play,’ he continued.

‘What happens if he gets in on Thursday and hasn’t seen the course? He effectively has his chances limited.’

Despite the drama, Ogilvy praised Rice as a ‘good bloke,’ saying they had been enjoying their time on the course before the incident unfolded.

Rice, who is currently paired with MAFS bride Lauren Hall, has left his golf career behind to find love on reality TV – but it seems his past has a way of following him.

Clint and Lauren’s time on the show was filled with tension, as their relationship struggled under the pressure of the experiment, leading to a dramatic retreat exit. 

Despite Clint’s efforts to make things work, Lauren remained distant from the group, with her refusal to engage sparking backlash from the other brides, who labelled her ‘snobby’ and dismissive.

Their most shocking moment came when they secretly planned to escape the retreat via helicopter, only to be caught by producers, reinforcing speculation that Lauren was never fully committed to the process.

Married At First Sight continues on Sunday on Channel Nine at 7pm.