The 2025 golf season was anything but dull—controversies, fan drama, rule chaos and unexpected headlines dominated the year.
From Ryder Cup drama to equipment scandals, the 2025 golf season delivered more than just birdies and bogeys. It was a year of heated debates, viral moments and rulebook rewrites. Here’s a look back at the most talked-about stories in golf.
Ryder Cup Chaos: Captains, Booing and Rule Surprises
The 2025 Ryder Cup was full of unexpected twists. Team USA captain Keegan Bradley found himself ranked ninth in the player standings after winning the Travelers Championship, sparking debate over whether a captain should also play. Ultimately, Bradley stayed on the sidelines, opting for strategy over spectacle.
Meanwhile, fans made their presence felt—especially Rory McIlroy, who endured loud boos and heckling from the American crowd. Shane Lowry even escorted a disruptive fan to security. Prize money stirred controversy too: for the first time, only Team USA received official compensation, while Team Europe played for pride. Scottie Scheffler pledged to donate his earnings, and McIlroy quipped he’d pay to play on Sunday.
Viktor Hovland’s neck injury triggered an obscure rule: his opponent was awarded half a point without hitting a shot. The match ended in a tie—and so did public opinion. Meanwhile, a Ryder Cup shop shirt resembling McIlroy mysteriously vanished from shelves after raising eyebrows.
PGA vs. LIV, Popov’s Setback and Driver Drama
The PGA-LIV feud continued when Wesley Bryan was suspended for appearing in a LIV-backed YouTube event. While Bryan defended his decision, Phil Mickelson called the ban an attack on entrepreneurial freedom. Oddly, the PGA had previously invited the event’s host, Grant Horvat, to tour events.
On the LPGA side, Sophia Popov played three tournaments after receiving clearance—only to be told later she wasn’t eligible. Her points and earnings were revoked due to an “administrative error,” costing her a shot at regaining her tour card.
Tech drama hit Rory McIlroy when his driver failed a USGA test. Though meant to be confidential, the leak sparked speculation about his Masters win. The PGA of America later cleared the air, but McIlroy criticized the selective leaking—especially since Scottie Scheffler’s failed test remained anonymous.
Slow Play, Shot Clocks and a Viral Creek Moment
Slow play remained a hot topic. Tom Kim admitted the TGL’s shot clock helped his pace, 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 exceeding time limits.
Finally, a bizarre moment at the Masters went viral when Spanish amateur Jose Luis Ballester, unable to find a restroom, relieved himself in Rae’s Creek. In a club where even sitting on the grass is frowned upon, the act became an unforgettable footnote to the 2025 season.