The 2025 golf season was anything but dull: fan drama, rule debates, and unexpected twists dominated the headlines.
From Ryder Cup controversies to LIV Golf suspensions and viral moments at Augusta, 2025 delivered a rollercoaster of emotions and headlines in the world of golf. While athletic performances were strong, it was the off-course drama that often stole the show. Here’s a look back at the most talked-about moments of the year.
Ryder Cup Drama: Booing, Rule Changes, 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 player in the rankings. Despite qualifying as a player, he chose to stay on the sidelines, sparking debate over whether captains should compete. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy faced jeers from American fans, and Shane Lowry escorted a heckler to security. The prize money controversy also flared up, with only Team USA receiving compensation, prompting McIlroy to quip he’d pay to play on Sunday.
Adding to the chaos, Viktor Hovland’s injury triggered a rarely used rule granting his opponent a half-point without a shot being played. And in a quieter controversy, a Ryder Cup shop shirt featuring a McIlroy-like silhouette mysteriously disappeared from shelves after backlash.
PGA vs. LIV: Suspensions, YouTube Events, and Mixed Signals
Wesley Bryan found himself suspended by the PGA Tour after appearing in a LIV-backed YouTube event, “The Duels.” While Bryan defended his participation, Phil Mickelson called the suspension an infringement on entrepreneurial freedom. Ironically, the event’s host, Grant Horvat, had been invited by the PGA Tour itself—highlighting the ongoing confusion in the PGA vs. LIV saga.
Elsewhere, Sophia Popov’s season was derailed by an administrative error. After receiving LPGA approval to play, she competed in three events—only to be told later she wasn’t eligible. Her points and earnings were revoked, ending her bid for a 2026 tour card.
Tech Fails, Slow Play, and Viral Moments
Rory McIlroy’s driver failed a USGA test, and while the results were supposed to be confidential, the leak sparked speculation about his Masters win. Scottie Scheffler’s driver also failed, but his identity remained protected—prompting McIlroy to question the selective leaks.
Slow play continued to plague the tours. Tom Kim admitted the TGL’s shot clock helped him speed up, while Alejandro Tosti was accused of using slow play as a tactic. At the Open Championship, rounds stretched to six hours, and J.J. Spaun received a warning for taking over 50 seconds on a shot.
Finally, in perhaps the most bizarre moment of the year, Spanish amateur Jose Luis Ballester went viral for relieving himself in Rae’s Creek during the Masters. With no restroom nearby, nature called—and the internet answered. In a club where sitting on the grass is frowned upon, Ballester made his mark in unforgettable fashion.