PLAYERS TO WATCH IN 2025

There is perhaps greater strength in depth in both men’s and women’s elite golf today than at any point in time.

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It’s increasingly tough to make it at the very top level, and those who do so possess an inordinate amount of talent and exceptional mental fortitude.

This year looks set to be a superb one on the main professional and amateur circuits, with packed international schedules that will feature incredible golfers from all around the globe.

Selecting players to watch in 2025 is challenging, as so many have the potential to make a name for themselves or step it up a level. I’ve thought long and hard to come up with 25 names across three different categories. First, those who might make a splash with breakout performances through the season; second, players I feel are ready to move through the gears and claim a big win; and finally, those at the very pinnacle of the game who I think may win a Major in 2025.

Jacob Skov Olesen

A former greenkeeper at Royal Copenhagen, Olesen won the 2024 Amateur Championship at Ballyliffin. The 25-year-old Dane made the cut in The Open at Royal Troon and then went on to earn 2025 DP World Tour playing rights through Q-School. He turned pro, forfeiting his exemption to this year’s Masters and showing he’s prepared to back himself in the paid ranks. He has abundant talent and the ability to go low.

Jasmine Koo

Just 18 years old, Koo is an amateur with huge potential. The Californian finished 13th in the Chevron Championship (the leading amateur), played in the 2024 Curtis Cup, winning 2.5 points, then won twice on the collegiate circuit in the second half of 2024. She was 4th in the 2024 Augusta National Women’s Amateur and, as the current World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) No.2, she’s my favourite to win it in 2025.

Luke Clanton