Golf may have a reputation as a gentleman’s game, but that doesn’t mean it’s free of drama. Over the years, plenty of players have found themselves at the center of controversy—whether for on-course antics, off-course scandals, or just rubbing people the wrong way.
From legendary rule-breakers to fiery personalities, here are the 15 most controversial golfers of all time.
15. John Daly
Daly’s wild lifestyle, love for gambling, and legendary drinking stories have made him one of the most polarizing figures in golf. While fans love his rebellious spirit, his off-course antics have often overshadowed his immense talent.
14. Rory Sabbatini
Known for his temper and occasional clashes with playing partners, Sabbatini has never been one to shy away from controversy. Whether it’s his public criticism of Tiger Woods or bizarre mid-round antics, he’s ruffled plenty of feathers on the course.
13. Patrick Reed
Reed has been accused of bending the rules on multiple occasions, including a highly publicized bunker incident in 2019. His brash attitude and the icy reception from fellow players have only fueled his reputation as one of golf’s biggest villains.
12. Gary Player
A legend of the game, Player has also courted controversy with his outspoken opinions and business dealings. His promotion of Saudi-backed events and legal battles over memorabilia have sparked plenty of debate among golf fans.
11. Phil Mickelson
Lefty was long considered one of golf’s most likable figures, but his involvement with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour and comments about the PGA Tour changed that. His gambling stories and insider trading scandal didn’t help, making him a lightning rod for controversy in recent years.
10. Jean van de Velde
Most famous for his legendary collapse at the 1999 Open Championship, Van de Velde was criticized for his stubborn decision-making. Instead of playing it safe, he took an unnecessarily risky approach on the final hole, leading to one of the biggest meltdowns in golf history.
9. Sergio García
García’s fiery temper and frequent complaints have made him a divisive figure throughout his career. From spitting in a cup after missing a putt to taking shots at Tiger Woods, he’s never been afraid to stir the pot.
8. Vijay Singh
Singh’s career has been filled with controversy, from a suspension over altering his scorecard in the ‘80s to his legal battles with the PGA Tour. His grudge against golf’s establishment and unwillingness to back down have kept him in the headlines for decades.
7. Bobby Jones
While Jones is widely regarded as one of golf’s greatest gentlemen, he wasn’t without controversy. His fiery temper as a young player led to multiple outbursts, and his decision to retire at the height of his career left many fans stunned.
6. Tiger Woods
Woods’ on-course dominance is undeniable, but his off-course scandals—including his infamous infidelity saga and DUI arrest—rocked the sports world. His fall from grace and eventual comeback have made him one of the most polarizing figures in golf history.
5. Greg Norman
The Great White Shark has had a long history of stirring up controversy, from his outspoken criticism of the PGA Tour to his role as the face of LIV Golf. His ongoing feud with golf’s establishment has made him both a hero and a villain, depending on who you ask.
4. Colin Montgomerie
Montgomerie’s fiery personality and frequent clashes with fans and media earned him a reputation as one of golf’s most controversial figures. His on-course antics and short temper often overshadowed his impressive Ryder Cup performances.
3. Bryson DeChambeau
DeChambeau’s obsession with analytics, slow play, and ongoing feud with Brooks Koepka have made him one of the most talked-about golfers of the modern era. While some admire his scientific approach to the game, others find him insufferable.
Read More: Ranking the 30 greatest Golfers of All Time
2. Patrick Cantlay
Cantlay may not be the most outspoken golfer, but his painfully slow play has frustrated fans and players alike. His role in the recent Ryder Cup controversy only added to his reputation as one of golf’s most divisive figures.
Read More: Ranking the 15 Most Likeable Golfers of All Time
1. Seve Ballesteros
Ballesteros was a magician with a golf club but often clashed with officials and competitors. His fiery demeanor and refusal to conform to golf’s traditional etiquette made him both a fan favorite and a controversial figure throughout his career.
Read More: 15 Golfers Who Were Hyped but Never Lived Up to Expectations
