Every sport has its fair share of egos, but golf hits differently. Maybe it’s the solo nature of the game or the country club bubble, but some players start acting like the fairway revolves around them.
This list isn’t about talent—it’s about swagger, self-importance, and the guys who couldn’t help but make every headline about themselves. Whether they were jawing at the press, skipping events, or carrying themselves like global celebrities, these are the golfers who made it pretty clear: in their minds, golf was lucky to have them.
20. Sergio Garcia
He’s always had the skills, but Sergio carried a chip on his shoulder like the game owed him something. From spats with fans to public rants, humility was rarely in his bag.
19. Ian Poulter
Poulter loved being the Ryder Cup guy—but he also loved reminding everyone just how important he thought he was. Whether it was his fashion or his flair, subtlety was never the vibe.
18. Bryson DeChambeau
He calls himself “The Scientist” and swings like he’s trying to break physics. Between protein shakes and press conference rants, Bryson often seemed more into his legend than the leaderboard.
17. Vijay Singh
Incredible talent, but Vijay never exactly played the media game. His prickly demeanor and quiet feuds gave off “I’m above all this” energy for most of his career.
16. Brooks Koepka
Koepka clarified that he only cared about majors and said regular events were beneath him. That confidence turned cocky real quick, especially when he started taking shots at his peers.
15. Patrick Reed
Reed would always have it in the bag if controversy were a club. He’s leaned into the villain role with such gusto that it’s hard not to think he loves being booed.
14. Greg Norman
The Shark had the charisma and game to be a megastar, and he ran with it. Now with LIV Golf, he’s made it crystal clear he’s playing for legacy—and maybe a bit of revenge.
13. Colin Montgomerie
Monty’s game was world-class, but his reactions to criticism were world-famous. He often looked like golf’s most reluctant celebrity if things didn’t go his way.
12. Rickie Fowler
At his peak, Rickie was more of a marketing machine than a major winner. It felt like he was on every billboard for a while, even though his trophy case stayed pretty.
11. David Duval
Duval was once the world’s top-ranked golfer—and he acted like it long after his game cooled. His fall from the top didn’t slow down the confidence one bit.
10. Rory Sabbatini
Yes, the guy once added a random amateur to his team to speed up play. With drama following him like a shadow, Sabbatini never exactly played it cool.
9. John Daly
Daly did things his way, whether the golf world liked it. From smoking mid-round to rocking loud pants, he built a brand that sometimes overshadowed his skills.
8. Bubba Watson
Bubba could bend the ball like nobody else, but his mood swings and media outbursts were part of the package. He wasn’t just playing golf but starring in the Bubba Show.
7. Phil Mickelson
Lefty is charming, yes—but also the king of calculated moves. From gambling rumors to LIV Golf rants, Phil’s story has often felt bigger than the game’s.
6. Payne Stewart
Stewart’s style and swagger turned heads, and he didn’t mind. While beloved, he also gave off strong vibes of a guy who knew the cameras loved him.
5. Rory McIlroy
Rory is one of the best of his generation, and he knows it. Whether calling out tours or making bold proclamations, he often sounds like a guy who sees himself as golf’s moral compass.
4. Tiger Woods
Tiger changed the game but dominated it for a long time. With that level of dominance came an air of untouchability, both on and off the course.
3. Seve Ballesteros
Seve had a flair for drama and believed in his magic, making every round feel cinematic. Humble wasn’t his brand, but charisma was.
Read More: The 20 Most Overconfident Golfers of All Time
2. Jack Nicklaus
Even as the all-time major king, Jack ensured everyone knew who was still running the room. With his opinions and presence, he’s remained the game’s ultimate statesman—but never just one of the guys.
Read More: 10 Golf Feuds That Got Personal
1. Arnold Palmer
The King was beloved—but make no mistake, he ruled with swagger. Palmer didn’t just play golf; he built a brand, and the sport revolved around him for decades.
Read More: Ranking the 20 Most Controversial Golfers of All Time
