The 2025 golf season was anything but boring – from fan drama to rule chaos and viral moments, here’s the year’s biggest stories.
From Ryder Cup controversies to equipment scandals and viral oddities, 2025 delivered a rollercoaster of headlines in the golf world. Here’s a look back at the most talked-about moments of the year.
Ryder Cup Drama: Booing Fans, Rule Changes and a Captain’s Dilemma
The 2025 Ryder Cup was full of unexpected storylines. Team USA captain Keegan Bradley found himself ranked ninth in the Ryder Cup standings after winning the Travelers Championship, sparking debate over whether a captain should play. A rule change made it possible, but Bradley chose to stay on the sidelines. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy faced loud boos from American fans, and Shane Lowry escorted a disruptive spectator to security. Controversy also erupted over prize money: Team USA received official payouts, while Team Europe did not. Scottie Scheffler pledged to donate his share, and McIlroy quipped he’d pay to play on Sunday. Viktor Hovland’s neck injury triggered a rarely used rule, awarding his opponent half a point without a single shot. And a Ryder Cup shop shirt resembling McIlroy mysteriously disappeared from shelves.
PGA vs. LIV, LPGA Missteps and Equipment Failures
Wesley Bryan was suspended by the PGA Tour after appearing in a LIV-supported YouTube event, “The Duels.” Phil Mickelson criticized the decision as a blow to entrepreneurial freedom, especially since the PGA had previously invited the event’s host, Grant Horvat. On the LPGA side, Sophia Popov played three events after receiving clearance—only to be told she wasn’t eligible. Her points and prize money were revoked, ending her bid for a 2026 tour card. Equipment also made headlines: Rory McIlroy’s driver failed a USGA test, sparking speculation about his Masters win. The leak angered McIlroy, especially since Scottie Scheffler’s failed test remained anonymous.
Slow Play, Shot Clocks and a Viral Creek Moment
Slow play continued to plague pro tours. Tom Kim admitted the TGL’s shot clock helped him speed up, while Alejandro Tosti was accused of intentionally slowing down to disrupt opponents. At the Open Championship, rounds stretched to six hours, and J.J. Spaun received a warning for taking over 50 seconds on a shot. And in perhaps the most bizarre moment of the year, Spanish amateur Jose Luis Ballester relieved himself in Rae’s Creek during the Masters, with the scene quickly going viral. In a club where sitting on the grass is frowned upon, Ballester made his mark in unforgettable fashion.