The 2025 golf season was anything but dull – from fan drama to rule chaos and unexpected headlines, here’s the year in review.
From rule controversies to fan incidents and viral moments, 2025 delivered a rollercoaster of stories in the world of golf. While the sport saw impressive performances, it was often the off-course drama that stole the spotlight.
Ryder Cup Chaos: Captains, Fans and Rule Flashbacks
The 2025 Ryder Cup was full of surprises. Team USA captain Keegan Bradley found himself ranked ninth in the player standings after winning the Travelers Championship, sparking renewed debate over whether a captain should also play. A rule change allowed it, but Bradley chose to stay on the sidelines—strategic, but anticlimactic.
Meanwhile, fans made their presence known. Rory McIlroy faced boos and distractions, while Shane Lowry had to escort a disruptive spectator to security. In a twist, only Team USA received official prize money, prompting McIlroy to quip he’d pay to play on Sunday. Viktor Hovland’s injury triggered an old rule: his opponent received half a point without a single shot played. Opinions split on whether that was fair.
Even merchandise stirred controversy: a Ryder Cup shirt featuring a swing eerily similar to McIlroy’s quietly disappeared from the shop after backlash.
PGA vs. LIV, Equipment Failures, and Popov’s LPGA Nightmare
The PGA-LIV saga continued with Wesley Bryan suspended for playing in a LIV-backed YouTube event. Ironically, the PGA Tour had invited the channel’s host, Grant Horvat, to other events. Phil Mickelson called the ban an attack on entrepreneurial freedom.
On the LPGA side, Sophia Popov’s season turned into a nightmare. After being told she could play, she competed in three events—only to be informed later she wasn’t eligible. Her points and prize money were revoked due to an “administrative error,” costing her a shot at a full tour card.
Tech drama hit Rory McIlroy when his driver failed a USGA test at the PGA Championship. Though the test was meant to be confidential, it leaked, leading to speculation about his Masters win. The PGA of America clarified the issue, but McIlroy was frustrated that only his name was leaked—Scottie Scheffler’s failed test remained anonymous.
Slow Play, Shot Clocks and a Viral Creek Incident
Slow play remained a hot topic. Tom Kim praised the TGL’s shot clock for helping his pace, while Alejandro Tosti was accused of deliberately slowing down to disrupt opponents. At The Open, rounds stretched beyond six hours, and J.J. Spaun received a warning for taking over 50 seconds for a shot.
And then there was the viral moment of the year: Spanish amateur Jose Luis Ballester, playing in the Masters, couldn’t find a restroom—so he relieved himself in Rae’s