As December winds down and January creeps closer, it’s time to reflect on 2025 and relive some of the best moments the game of golf provided fans over the past year. The discussion among the Golfweek staff for “Tournament of the Year” wasn’t as lively as last year, but there were still plenty of tournaments considered among the best in the calendar year. However, one particular tournament from the second weekend of April stood out for historical reasons.
This year in golf was a crazy one. From major championship history to mind-boggling playoffs, let’s dive into Golfweek’s highlights of the best Tournaments of the Year in 2025.
Rory McIlroy Finally Conquers Augusta
How do you condense the final round of the 2025 Masters into a single paragraph? Every single shot Rory McIlroy made on the back nine felt cinematic. Despite bogeys on holes 11 and 14, and a double on the infamous 13th, McIlroy displayed incredible resilience. His second shot on the 15th was brilliant, and he followed that up with a masterful shot on 17. Meanwhile, Justin Rose staged a remarkable comeback, starting the day seven shots behind and forcing a playoff after McIlroy bogeyed the 72nd hole. In a thrilling conclusion, McIlroy birdied the first playoff hole, completing his career Grand Slam—a moment to treasure for golf fans everywhere.
Grace Kim Outlasts Jeeno in France
In July, the golf world watched in awe as Grace Kim prevailed over Jeeno Thitikul in a nail-biting finish at The Amundi Evian Championship. The tournament was filled with drama, including Lottie Woad’s near playoff appearance as an amateur and Thitikul’s heartbreaking miss on an 8-footer that would have clinched her victory. Kim, undeterred by adversity, closed out the last four holes with an astounding 4-under to reach a playoff. In an incredible twist, Kim found herself in a perilous position after her second shot went into the water, allowing Thitikul to potentially claim the title. Yet, with remarkable skill, Kim chipped in for birdie to extend the playoff before hitting a majestic approach on the second playoff hole and burying an eagle from 12 feet. This victory marked Kim’s first major title, showcasing her immense talent and determination.
Rory Claims His Second Players Title
Before his Masters triumph, Rory McIlroy had a remarkable showdown at TPC Sawgrass for the Players Championship. After a dramatic day, he found himself locked in a playoff against J.J. Spaun. The tension was palpable as McIlroy birdied the par-5 16th and expertly navigated the daunting 17th hole, while Spaun faced the perilous island green. Even with a bogey, McIlroy held a solid lead, clinching his second Players title with a final bogey on 18—a significant precursor to the triumphs that would follow.
Brooke Henderson Wins on Home Soil
In August, Canadian golfer Brooke Henderson etched her name in history with an emotional victory at the CPKC Women’s Open. Ending a winless drought of over two years, she became the first woman to win the Canadian Open twice since 1914. The Mississaugua Golf and Country Club served as the backdrop for her triumphant return, and the moment felt particularly special. As she hoisted the trophy on her home turf, the celebration embodied both personal achievement and national pride.
Justin Rose Knocks Off J.J. Spaun at FedEx St. Jude
The excitement of playoff drama in 2025 continued at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, where Justin Rose faced off against J.J. Spaun. In a thrilling finish, both golfers showcased their skills, with Rose sinking crucial birdies on holes 14 through 17 to force a playoff. The tension reached new heights as they each parred the first playoff hole and then exchanged birdies on the second. With precision and nerve, Rose triumphed over Spaun on the third playoff hole, further solidifying his status as one of the game’s greats. Spaun’s own journey included notable moments, blending disappointment with potential for future success.
These highlights from 2025 reflect a year filled with remarkable talent, thrilling finishes, and unforgettable moments in golf. Each tournament told its own story of perseverance, historical significance, and the unwavering spirit of competition.