From fan chaos to rule debates and viral moments — 2025 delivered drama, controversy and surprises across the golf world.
The 2025 golf season was anything but dull. While athletic excellence was on display, headlines were dominated by off-course drama: player debates, fan behavior, rule confusion, and bizarre incidents. Here’s the year in review.
Boos, Rule Shakeups and a Captain on the Sidelines
The Ryder Cup in 2025 was full of unexpected storylines. Captain Keegan Bradley found himself ranked ninth after winning the Travelers Championship — raising the age-old question: can a captain also play? Rules were adjusted, debates reignited, but Bradley stayed in the coaching zone. Smart move? Perhaps. Dramatic? Not quite.
Fans, however, brought plenty of drama. Rory McIlroy faced boos and heckling, while Shane Lowry personally escorted a fan to security. Prize money stirred controversy too — in 2025, only Team USA received official compensation. Scottie Scheffler pledged to donate his share, while McIlroy quipped he’d pay to play on Sunday.
Viktor Hovland’s neck injury triggered a rarely used rule: his opponent received half a point without a single shot. Opinions were split. Meanwhile, a Ryder Cup shop shirt resembling McIlroy quietly disappeared from shelves — another odd subplot.
PGA vs. LIV, Equipment Failures and Admin Blunders
Wesley Bryan’s appearance at a LIV-supported YouTube event led to an indefinite PGA Tour suspension. Phil Mickelson called it a blow to entrepreneurial freedom. Ironically, the event’s host, Grant Horvat, had been invited to a PGA Tour event. The PGA vs. LIV saga continued.
Sophia Popov played three LPGA events after receiving clearance — only to be told later she wasn’t eligible. Points and prize money were revoked due to an “administrative error,” costing her a shot at a 2026 tour card.
McIlroy also found himself in the spotlight when his driver failed a USGA test. Though confidential, the info leaked, sparking rumors about his Masters win. Scheffler’s driver also failed — but his name stayed hidden. McIlroy voiced frustration