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2025 Golf Year in Review: Farewells, Firestorms and Iconic Moments

A look back at 2025’s emotional turning points, personal stories and unforgettable scenes on and off the course.

The 2025 golf season was packed with stories. Legendary careers came to an end, new paths were forged, and the sport delivered everything from heartfelt farewells to dramatic comebacks. Sometimes, a single putt is enough to define an entire year. Here’s our year in review.

Bernhard Langer’s Quiet Farewell at Augusta

Some moments in golf speak louder than words. When Bernhard Langer stood on the 18th green at Augusta in April, fans rose to their feet as the two-time Masters champion swung his putter one final time. After 41 starts, it was time to say goodbye. He missed the cut, but that hardly mattered. It was the decades of dedication and grace that earned him global respect. Langer remained composed and grateful, expressing his wish to return as a non-playing champion. A quiet exit for a giant who never sought the spotlight, but could never be overlooked.

From Wildfires to Weddings: Golf’s Human Side

While Augusta echoed with memories, another historic course faced a different kind of challenge. Wildfires, driven by strong winds, forced tens of thousands to evacuate near California’s Riviera Country Club. With nearly a century of history, Olympic ties, and Major moments, the club found itself in the danger zone. Fire crews battled to protect one of golf’s most iconic venues.

On a brighter note, Laura Fünfstück brought warmth to the Ladies European Tour by marrying fellow pro Rosie Davies. Just days later, she was back on the course. “Nice to think about my swing again instead of table settings,” she joked, showing how closely personal life and professional golf intertwine.

Meanwhile, Tiger Woods made headlines off the course. Rumors swirled about a relationship with Vanessa Trump, ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr. Both based in Florida and active in junior golf circles, their connection sparked public interest. For Woods, who faced injury setbacks and the loss of his mother, it was a year marked by personal trials and renewed media attention.

Celebrations, Sacrifices and Setbacks

LIV Golf Adelaide brought the noise. Patrick Reed’s hole-in-one on the infamous 12th “Watering Hole” sent fans into a frenzy. Drinks flew, cheers erupted, and the atmosphere resembled a football match more than a golf event—exactly the vibe LIV aims for.