The Best of Golf Media in 2025: From investigative Reporting to Heartfelt Storytelling
The golf world in 2025 offered a rich tapestry of content, extending far beyond tournament coverage.From deeply reported features to innovative podcasting and compelling video series, creators delivered narratives that resonated with fans on multiple levels. This compilation highlights some of the most impactful and memorable golf media of the year, showcasing the breadth and depth of storytelling within the sport.
The Power of the Written Word
Golf journalism continued to thrive in 2025, with writers consistently pushing boundaries and delivering insightful analysis. Gabby Herzig of The Athletic established herself as a must-read, and her prescient reporting on the Ryder Cup at Bethpage proved especially noteworthy. As she predicted, the anticipated American blowout never materialized, demonstrating a keen understanding of the nuances of the competition.
Meanwhile, Kyle Porter’s game story following Rory McIlroy’s Masters victory for Normal Sport Newsletter exemplified the power of heartfelt writing. Porter captured McIlroy’s humanity on deadline, offering a poignant account of a long-awaited triumph. subscribers to his newsletter already know the value of his work,but it’s a resource worth discovering for any golf enthusiast.
Original reporting remained a hallmark of quality golf journalism. Joel Beall and Evin Priest of Golf Digest delivered a compelling story about Ryan Peake, a former gang member and convict who returned to professional golf.Their tale, a testament to redemption and perseverance, was so impactful that Golf Channel produced a video adaptation shortly after its publication.
Brendan Quinn’s profile of veteran journalist Art Spander in The Athletic offered a unique perspective, venturing beyond the game itself to explore the business of journalism, the complexities of marriage, and the enduring power of a lifelong career.
Golf architecture also received its due attention. Travis Hill’s piece in The Golfer’s Journal,”Strantz’s Last Stand,” provided a deeply personal account of Mike Strantz’s final course design at Monterey Peninsula country Club. The story, culminating in Strantz’s emotional speech during the course opening while battling cancer, is a truly moving experience.
Michael Bamberger’s columns for Golf.com continued to offer a literary escape, capturing the essence of the game with a timeless quality. While not for everyone, his musings provide a unique and valuable perspective.Brody Miller’s profile of Ludvig Åberg in The Athletic skillfully painted a portrait of one of golf’s rising stars, demonstrating the value of thorough reporting – Miller reportedly contacted a dozen sources to shape the narrative.
Adam Schupak of Golf Week proved invaluable for those following the week-to-week news cycle, consistently shaping the agenda with his reporting.
