The Masters: Robert MacIntyre likely to receive warning over obscene gesture at Augusta

European Ryder Cup star Robert MacIntyre is likely to be warned about his etiquette by Masters tournament officials after the Scot stuck up his middle finger in disgust during a nightmarish opening round. 

The 29-year-old came into the first men's major of the year believing he could be a contender for the green jacket given he already has one runner-up finish in one of golf's big four and five other top 10s. 

But the Oban man is now among a host of big names facing a battle to make the cut after slumping to an eight-over 80 on Thursday. 

And he may have to do some grovelling to the green jackets of Augusta National Golf Club. 

MacIntyre cut a frustrated figure all day and his temper boiled over more than once over during a horrendous opening round. 

At the 12th hole, MacIntyre missed the green and hot mics picked up the golfer saying: "It's going left to right, Jesus f---!"

On the 13th, MacIntyre found the par-five in two shots but misjudged the break of his lengthy eagle putt and watched his ball trickle off the green. 

MacIntyre still managed to save par but was running hot. 

After another loose iron shot, the golfer slammed his club into the 14th fairway. 

Then MacIntyre really lost his temper after finding the water twice at the 15th and making a rare quadruple-bogey nine. 

He was the second player of the day to make a quad. 

MacIntyre was then spotted giving the middle finger on the hole. The gesture will not have gone down well with tournament organisers.

The tournament committee does not disclose details of disciplinary action competitors are subjected to if they fall foul of the rules. 

Last April, young Spaniard Josele Ballester sparked controversy after he urinated into Rae's Creek in full view of the patrons during the opening round. 

Ballester said he was desperate to go and didn't realise there were toilets nearby. He made matters worse by saying he didn't feel embarrassed and would do it again. 

It is understood an apology settled the matter. 

Telegraph Sport reported that Augusta National Golf Club are unlikely to fine MacIntyre and he will instead receive a verbal reprimand. 

For MacIntyre, it is far from a one-off, with the Scot known for his frequent expletive-laden outbursts. 

At last week's Valero Texas Open, where MacIntyre was pipped to victory once again by American J.J. Spaun, Sky Sports were forced to apologise after the Scot dropped another F-bomb.