Golf might be known for its etiquette, hushed tones, and polite claps, but that doesn’t mean the sport hasn’t had its fair share of drama. Over the years, a handful of players have managed to stir the pot, rile up fans, and grab headlines for all the wrong—or sometimes entertaining—reasons.
Whether it’s fiery tempers, off-course antics, or simply being a lightning rod for debate, these golfers made waves in ways that went far beyond a Sunday leaderboard. From legends with complicated legacies to guys who thrived in the chaos, here are the 15 most controversial golfers of all time.
15. Robert Allenby
Allenby’s bizarre stories off the course have often overshadowed his play on it. From claims of kidnapping to feuding with caddies, he’s managed to stay in the headlines for all the wrong reasons.
14. Rory Sabbatini
Sabbatini has never been shy about speaking his mind, even if it rubbed people the wrong way. Whether it’s arguing with fans or getting into it with fellow pros, he’s always added spice to the PGA Tour.
13. Sergio Garcia
Garcia’s tantrums and testy interviews have made him a divisive figure for years. He’s thrown clubs, made bizarre comments, and occasionally seemed more interested in drama than trophies.
12. Bubba Watson
For someone with two green jackets, Bubba doesn’t exactly have universal fan support. His quirky personality and reputation for being difficult with caddies and media have made him a magnet for criticism.
11. Vijay Singh
Singh’s history includes a cheating allegation early in his career and a lawsuit against the PGA Tour later on. Despite his undeniable talent, he’s rarely been embraced by fans or fellow pros.
10. John Daly
Daly is as famous for his off-course lifestyle as he is for his monster drives. From smoking mid-round to gambling confessions, he’s golf’s wildest character—and proud of it.
9. Tom Watson
Watson is a legend, but even legends can ruffle feathers. His Ryder Cup captaincy in 2014 drew heavy criticism from players, and his old-school views have occasionally clashed with the modern game.
8. Phil Mickelson
Phil went from beloved Lefty to public relations nightmare in the blink of an eye. His involvement with LIV Golf and some questionable comments sent his image into a full tailspin.
7. Anthony Kim
AK was supposed to be the future of golf, but his mysterious disappearance only added to his legend. Rumors of insurance deals, injuries, and now a polarizing comeback have made him a fascination.
6. Ian Poulter
Poulter thrives on being the guy people love to hate. He’s brash, loud, and now one of the faces of LIV Golf, making him even more polarizing than ever.
5. Greg Norman
Norman’s career has been full of ups and downs, but his role as the frontman for LIV Golf turned the volume up to 11. Once known as the Great White Shark, now he’s just the guy swimming upstream against golf’s establishment.
Read More: Ranking the 20 Flashiest Golfers of All Time
4. Tiger Woods
Tiger’s career includes the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. His off-course scandals, injuries, and comebacks have made him both revered and scrutinized like no other golfer in history.
Read More: Ranking the 15 Most Likeable Golfers of All Time
3. Bryson DeChambeau
Bryson turned golf into a physics experiment—and Twitter into a battleground. From feuding with Brooks to his bizarre workout routines, he’s been a one-man circus in a collared shirt.
Read More: 15 Golfers Everyone Rooted for No Matter What
2. Brooks Koepka
Koepka has made a career out of side-eyes and soundbites. Whether he’s mocking other players or downplaying majors, he keeps stirring the pot and making headlines without even trying.
Read More: 20 Golfers Who Took Every Missed Putt Personally
1. Patrick Reed
Reed is basically a walking controversy at this point. From rules violations to feuds with teammates and family, he’s embraced the villain role like it’s a major.
Stay in the Game With the Latest Scores, Highlights, and Stories — Follow GamerKoala on MSN.
