15 Unforgettable Moments in Professional Golf from 2025
The world of professional golf was bustling in 2025, showcasing excitement across various tours. With 46 PGA Tour events, 33 LPGA tournaments, 35 DP World Tour competitions, 14 LIV Golf events, and 28 PGA Tour Champions tournaments, the calendar was packed. Here’s a recap of 15 memorable moments you might have missed in the dynamic landscape of professional golf this past year.
1. Los Angeles PGA Tour Event Relocated Due to Fires
What Happened: The Genesis Invitational moved from its usual home at Riviera in Los Angeles to Torrey Pines in San Diego, prompted by devastating fires in the region.
Key Takeaway: A historic event that has been held in L.A. for 26 years faced disruption due to environmental challenges.
2. CBS Analyst Criticizes Slow Play
What Happened: Analyst Dottie Pepper voiced concerns over the pace of play during the Farmers Insurance Open on CBS.
Key Insight: The need for respect among competitors and viewers emerged as a critical point in the conversation around slow play in professional golf.
3. Tiger Woods’ Shocking Simulator Mishap
What Happened: Tiger Woods missed his yardage by a staggering 80 yards during TGL play, hitting only 117 yards when he had 199 to go.
Highlight: This incident sparked laughter and disbelief among fans, adding a memorable moment to Woods’ storied career.
4. Rory McIlroy’s $995 Uber Ride
What Happened: When faced with a last-minute club change at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, McIlroy had an Uber rush him his old driver from Jupiter, Florida.
Notable Moment: This event showcased the lengths players go to maintain competitive advantage.
5. Heckling Incident at the Players Championship
What Happened: Rory McIlroy confronted a heckling fan during the Players Championship, confiscating the fan’s phone.
Significance: This unusual engagement highlighted the sometimes volatile relationship between golfers and fans.
6. Adam Hadwin’s Frustration at the Valspar Championship
What Happened: Adam Hadwin faced chaos when he smashed a sprinkler head in frustration after a tough hole.
Takeaway: This incident emphasized the mental pressures players experience on the course.
7. Bryson DeChambeau’s Late-Night Masters Practice
What Happened: DeChambeau practiced on a backyard green during the Masters, demonstrating his intense preparation for the tournament.
Key Insight: The dedication shown by golfers, often outside official practice areas, reflects their commitment to success.
8. RBC Canadian Open’s Dramatic Finish
What Happened: Ryan Fox won his second PGA Tour tournament in a playoff described as a ‘pillow fight’ between players.
Quote: Fox emphasized the pressure and strokes taken during the tense moments that led to his victory.
9. Phil Mickelson’s U.S. Open Goodbye?
What Happened: Mickelson missed the cut at what could be his final U.S. Open, leaving fans reflecting on his illustrious career.
Reflection: This moment served as a bittersweet goodbye to one of golf’s greats.
10. Unexpected Victory at the John Deere Classic
What Happened: Brian Campbell, a less prominent player on the PGA Tour, secured his second victory of the season, surprising fans and analysts alike.
Insight: His win highlighted the unpredictable nature of professional golf.
11. Historic Performance Opportunity for Haotong Li
What Happened: Haotong Li found himself in the final pairing during the Open Championship, showcasing his potential on a grand stage.
Significance: His talent was recognized when he previously played alongside top-tier players.
12. Juli Inkster’s Attempt to Make LPGA History
What Happened: At 65, Inkster tried to make history as the oldest player to make a cut in the LPGA but faced disappointment with a challenging round.
Reflection: Her performance reminded fans of the relentless spirit and high standards of professional athletes.
13. John Daly’s Epic 19
What Happened: At the Sanford International, John Daly recorded a remarkable 19 on a single hole, adding to his colorful golfing history.
Takeaway: This incident sparked both amusement and disbelief, typical of Daly’s unpredictable career.
14. PGA Tour Cancels Season Opener
What Happened: The PGA Tour’s season-opening Sentry event was canceled, raising questions about future events and the Tour’s direction.
Insight: The decision reflected broader issues affecting golf, including environmental concerns.
15. Ben Griffin Joins Elite Company
What Happened: Ben Griffin achieved his third PGA Tour victory of the season at the World Wide Technology Championship, placing him alongside stars like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy.
Highlight: His consistent performance positioned Griffin as a player to watch in the upcoming years.
John Daly in September at the Sanford International
Getty Images
With so many thrilling moments during 2025, the world of golf continued to deliver unforgettable stories. Whether through intense competition, dramatic incidents, or heartwarming farewells, this year showcased the sport’s magic. As the next season approaches, fans can only anticipate what new unforgettable moments await on the greens.
