Golf might seem like a gentleman’s game on the surface, but that doesn’t mean it’s all handshakes and high fives. Beneath the quiet claps and polite nods, there’s been some serious tension brewing on the fairways.
From petty squabbles to full-on personality clashes, golf has had its fair share of drama. These feuds remind us that even the calmest sports can turn into a battlefield when egos collide.
15. Patrick Reed vs. Jordan Spieth
They were once Ryder Cup partners, but things went downhill fast after they split up. Reed didn’t hold back in calling out Spieth, and the awkward tension hasn’t faded.
14. Tiger Woods vs. Sergio Garcia
These two never saw eye to eye, and the digs got personal over the years. From slow-play complaints to off-course jabs, it was never a friendly rivalry.
13. Rory Sabbatini vs. Ben Crane
Sabbatini once stormed ahead of Crane mid-round because of his slow play, making his feelings crystal clear. Crane didn’t respond publicly, but the message was received loud and clear.
12. Brooks Koepka vs. Brandel Chamblee
Koepka didn’t appreciate Chamblee’s repeated criticism, and he made sure to fire back. The two traded jabs in interviews and on social media, keeping the feud nice and spicy.
11. Vijay Singh vs. Phil Mickelson
Singh was reportedly rubbed the wrong way by Mickelson’s behavior early in their careers. Things never turned explosive, but there was definitely no love lost.
10. Tiger Woods vs. Stephen Ames
Ames made the mistake of talking trash before a match play showdown, and Tiger responded by destroying him 9 and 8. If looks could kill, Ames would’ve been in real trouble that day.
9. Bubba Watson vs. Ted Scott
Their player-caddie relationship ended after years of visible tension. It wasn’t just one blow-up—it was a slow burn that finally reached its breaking point.
8. Rory McIlroy vs. Patrick Reed
This one got so intense it involved lawsuits and tee-throwing. When Reed showed up uninvited to chat with Rory on the range, Rory iced him like a pro.
7. Colin Montgomerie vs. Everyone
Monty had a knack for getting under people’s skin, whether it was players, fans, or media. He didn’t hold back, and plenty of people didn’t mind returning the favor.
6. Ian Poulter vs. Golf Media
Poulter has had an ongoing beef with journalists whom he felt disrespected him. He’s known to block critics online and call out perceived slights in fiery rants.
5. Phil Mickelson vs. Tom Watson
Watson’s captaincy at the Ryder Cup didn’t sit well with Phil, who publicly criticized his leadership. The press conference drama was as awkward as it gets.
4. Brooks Koepka vs. Bryson DeChambeau
This was golf’s version of a heavyweight grudge match, complete with eye rolls, snide comments, and major tension. Even casual fans couldn’t look away.
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3. Tiger Woods vs. Fuzzy Zoeller
Zoeller made racially insensitive comments about Tiger early in his career, and Tiger cut ties immediately. It was a turning point that Tiger never forgot.
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2. Greg Norman vs. Jack Nicklaus
Norman has thrown shade at Nicklaus over the years, questioning his role in various golf decisions. The respect might be there, but the friendship clearly isn’t.
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1. Phil Mickelson vs. the PGA Tour
Phil’s public shots at the Tour over media rights and player treatment opened up a massive rift. It’s the kind of feud that changed the landscape of professional golf entirely.
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