JON RAHM's ball was stolen by two children during Thursday's first round of US Open.

His shot on the 18th hole was just short of the fairway, and the ball ended up landing next to a TV tower.

As he started to walk over to the area, some observers noticed that two children had grabbed the ball and run away with it.

Rahm was aware of what was going on, but he could see the humorous side.

He spoke to reporters after the second day and said that he was 100 percent certain he saw the two children who stole the item.

"Somebody -- I think I know the name of that person. I recognized the two children who were running in the opposite direction, smiling on their faces.

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"I am just so happy that somebody saw the ball. It was right there.

"Off the tee, I was comfortable. I saw all the trees.

"After the relief, I had 135 yard to the pin in an area that wasn't very thick.

"I don’t think they expected anyone to hit it there or to be around it, so I was capable of dropping it in an area with a little downgrain and wasn’t in danger of carrying the bunker. It wasn't a problem."

Officials realized what had happened and granted the champion a free fall.

He kept his cool, and was able hit the ball onto the green before making a birdie.

Rahm completed the day with a score of minus one.

He is now three shots behind Adam Hadwin, who is currently leading the tournament.