The 2025 golf season was anything but dull – from fan incidents to rule chaos, this year had it all, with plenty of drama.
From heated debates to bizarre moments, 2025 delivered a rollercoaster of headlines that went far beyond fairways and greens. While athletic performances impressed, it was the off-course drama that often stole the spotlight. Here’s a look back at the most talked-about moments of the year.
Ryder Cup Drama: Booing Fans, Rule Reboots and a Captain’s Dilemma
The 2025 Ryder Cup was full of unexpected twists. Captain Keegan Bradley found himself in the top 10 of the Ryder Cup rankings after winning the Travelers Championship, sparking debate over whether a captain should play. A rule change allowed it, but Bradley opted to stay on the sidelines—strategically sound, but theatrically underwhelming.
Fans, however, took center stage. Rory McIlroy faced relentless booing from American crowds, while Shane Lowry personally escorted a fan to security. In a controversial move, only Team USA received prize money, with Scottie Scheffler pledging to donate his share. McIlroy quipped he’d pay to play on Sunday.
Viktor Hovland’s neck injury triggered a rarely used rule granting his opponent a free half-point, sparking debate. Meanwhile, a Ryder Cup shop shirt resembling McIlroy mysteriously vanished from shelves after raising eyebrows.
PGA vs. LIV, Equipment Scandals and Bureaucratic Blunders
The PGA-LIV saga continued with Wesley Bryan suspended for playing in a LIV-backed YouTube event. Ironically, the PGA had invited the host, Grant Horvat. Phil Mickelson called it an attack on entrepreneurial freedom.
Sophia Popov was told she could play LPGA events—until she was told she couldn’t. After competing in three tournaments, her points and earnings were revoked due to an “administrative error,” ending her bid for a 2026 tour card.
Rory McIlroy also made headlines when his driver failed a USGA test, raising questions about his Masters win. The leak, which should have been confidential, contrasted with Scottie Scheffler’s similar issue