The 2025 golf season was anything but dull – from fan controversies to rule chaos and viral moments, here’s the year in review.
From heated debates to bizarre incidents, 2025 delivered a rollercoaster of golf drama. While athletic performances impressed, headlines were often dominated by off-course stories. 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 unexpected twists. Team USA captain Keegan Bradley found himself ranked ninth after winning the Travelers Championship, sparking debate over whether a captain could also play. A rule change allowed it, but Bradley opted to stay on the sidelines – a smart move, if not a dramatic one.
Fans, however, brought the drama. Rory McIlroy faced loud boos and distractions, while Shane Lowry personally escorted a disruptive fan to security. Prize money became a hot topic too: for the first time, only Team USA received official payouts, leaving Team Europe empty-handed. Scottie Scheffler stuck to his donation plan, while McIlroy quipped he’d pay to play on Sunday.
Viktor Hovland’s neck injury triggered a rarely-used rule, awarding his opponent a half-point without a single shot. Opinions were split. Meanwhile, a Ryder Cup shop shirt featuring a McIlroy-like silhouette quietly vanished after sparking controversy.
PGA vs LIV, Equipment Failures and Administrative Blunders
The PGA vs LIV saga continued when Wesley Bryan was suspended for playing in a LIV-supported YouTube event, “The Duels.” Ironically, Grant Horvat, whose channel hosted the event, had been invited by the PGA Tour. Phil Mickelson called the suspension a blow to entrepreneurial freedom.
Sophia Popov faced heartbreak after being cleared to play three LPGA events, only to be told afterward she wasn’t eligible. Her points and earnings were revoked due to an “administrative error,” ending her bid for a 2026 tour card.
Rory McIlroy also found himself in the spotlight when his driver failed a USGA test – a result that was supposed to remain confidential. Speculation swirled about his Masters win, until the PGA of America clarified the situation. Scottie Scheffler’s driver also failed, but his name stayed under wraps. McIlroy expressed frustration over the selective leak.
Slow Play, Shot Clocks and a Viral Creek Incident
Slow play remained a hot topic. Tom Kim praised