The 2025 golf season delivered drama beyond the fairways – from fan clashes to rule chaos and viral moments.
From heated debates to bizarre incidents, 2025 proved that golf is far from boring. While players delivered strong performances, headlines were often dominated by off-course drama and unexpected twists. Here’s our recap of a year that had it all.
Ryder Cup Drama: Booing Fans, Rule Reboots and a Captain’s Dilemma
The 2025 Ryder Cup was full of surprises, none bigger than Keegan Bradley’s dual role as captain and top-10 qualifier. Though eligible to play, he chose to stay on the sidelines—a smart move competitively, but a letdown theatrically. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy endured loud booing from American fans, and Shane Lowry escorted a heckler to security. The prize money debate added fuel: only Team USA received official compensation, while McIlroy quipped he’d pay to play on Sunday. Viktor Hovland’s injury triggered a rare rule, awarding his opponent half a point without a single shot. And a McIlroy-like silhouette on a Ryder Cup shirt mysteriously vanished from the shop.
PGA vs. LIV: Suspensions, YouTube Events and Confusion
Wesley Bryan’s appearance in a LIV-backed YouTube event led to an indefinite PGA Tour suspension, sparking debate over fairness and freedom. Phil Mickelson called it a business rights issue, while the PGA Tour had ironically invited the host, Grant Horvat, to events. The saga added another chapter to the ongoing PGA vs. LIV drama.
Tech Fails, Administrative Errors and Nature Calls
Rory McIlroy’s driver failed a USGA test, raising questions about his Masters win—until PGA of America calmed the storm. Scottie Scheffler’s driver also failed, but his identity remained hidden. Sophia Popov’s season was derailed by an LPGA administrative error that cost her points and prize money. Slow play plagued the tours, with Tom Kim embracing a shot clock and Alejandro Tosti accused of strategic delays. At the Open Championship, rounds stretched to six hours. Finally, at the Masters, amateur Jose Luis Ballester went viral for relieving himself in Rae’s Creek—an unforgettable moment in a club where even sitting on the grass is frowned upon.