The 2025 golf season brought drama, from fan clashes and rule debates to LIV-PGA tensions and viral Masters moments.
From Ryder Cup controversies to LIV Golf suspensions and viral Masters moments, 2025 was anything but quiet in the world of golf. While athletic achievements were notable, headlines were dominated by off-course drama, fan behavior, and rule confusion. Here’s our year-end recap.
Ryder Cup Drama: Booing, Rule Changes and Captain Confusion
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, prompting debate over whether a captain could also play. Rules were adjusted, but Bradley ultimately stayed on the sidelines—wise tactically, but a letdown theatrically.
Meanwhile, fans made their presence felt. Rory McIlroy faced loud jeers and distractions, while Shane Lowry personally escorted a disruptive fan to security. The prize money debate also flared up, as only Team USA received official compensation. McIlroy quipped he’d pay to play on Sunday, while Scottie Scheffler stuck to his donation plan.
Viktor Hovland’s neck injury triggered a rarely used rule: his opponent received half a point without a single shot. The match was halved, and opinions were too. And then there was the merchandise scandal—a shirt bearing a silhouette resembling McIlroy quietly disappeared from the Ryder Cup shop.
PGA vs. LIV, Equipment Failures and Bureaucratic Blunders
Wesley Bryan was suspended by the PGA Tour after appearing in a LIV-supported YouTube event, despite the PGA inviting the channel host, Grant Horvat, to other events. Phil Mickelson called it a blow to entrepreneurial freedom, adding fuel to the ongoing PGA-LIV saga.
LPGA pro Sophia Popov was caught in a bureaucratic mess. After receiving clearance to play, she competed in three events—only to be told later she wasn’t eligible. Her points and prize money were revoked, costing her a shot at a 2026 tour card.
Rory McIlroy’s driver failed a USGA test during the PGA Championship, sparking speculation about his Masters win. The leak, which should have remained confidential, left McIlroy frustrated—especially since 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 him speed up, while Alejandro Tosti was accused of deliberately slowing down to disrupt opponents. At the Open Championship, rounds stretched to six hours, and J.J. Spaun received a warning for exceeding the 50-second routine limit.
And finally, the most bizarre moment of the year: Spanish amateur Jose Luis Ballester relieved himself in Rae’s Creek during the Masters due to a lack of nearby restrooms. The moment went viral—proving once again that golf, even at Augusta, can still surprise.