Who Is the Best Golf Player in the World in 2025?

By Sarah Miller · June 13, 2026

As of 2025, Jon Rahm is widely regarded as the best golf player in the world, leading the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and combining consistent major performance with elite play across the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.

Why Jon Rahm Is Considered the Top Golfer in 2025

Jon Rahm's ascent to the top of men's professional golf has been fueled by a combination of technical precision, mental toughness, and sustained excellence. After transitioning to LIV Golf in 2023, Rahm continued to dominate, winning multiple events and maintaining top form in global tournaments, including majors.

Key Factors Behind Rahm's Dominance

Consistent top-10 finishes in major championships
Elite ball-striking and scoring average on tour
Strong performance in high-pressure situations
Adaptability across course types and weather conditions
Leadership role in team events within LIV Golf

Comparison with Other Top Contenders

While Jon Rahm leads the rankings, several players remain close behind, challenging for supremacy in the sport. These include Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, and Viktor Hovland, each bringing unique strengths.

Golfers Frequently Mentioned Alongside Rahm

Rory McIlroy: Four-time major winner, still competitive in majors and OWGR top-5 mainstay.
Scottie Scheffler: Known for composure and consistency; multiple PGA Tour wins and former world number one.
Viktor Hovland: Rising star with strong ball-striking and fitness edge.
Tiger Woods (historical context): While no longer active full-time, his legacy influences modern comparisons.

Player	OWGR (2025)	Major Wins	PGA Tour Wins	LIV Golf Wins	Scoring Avg (2024–2025)
Jon Rahm	1	2	24	6	68.3
Scottie Scheffler	2	4	17	0	68.7
Rory McIlroy	3	4	26	0	69.1
Viktor Hovland	4	1	11	3	68.5
Brooks Koepka	5	5	9	4	69.4

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows Jon Rahm leads in both world ranking and scoring average, indicating superior overall performance. His balance between major success, tour wins, and low scores gives him an edge over peers despite fewer major titles than McIlroy or Koepka. The scoring average under 68.5 highlights elite consistency.

Performance Metrics That Define Greatness in Golf

Beyond wins and rankings, advanced analytics help assess who truly performs best week after week. Key metrics include strokes gained (total and by category), scrambling efficiency, and putting from various distances.

Critical Performance Indicators in Modern Golf

Strokes Gained: Total – Measures overall performance relative to field average.
Strokes Gained: Tee-to-Green – Evaluates driving, approach, and short game.
Putting Average per Round – Tracks putts taken per hole when reaching green in regulation.
Driving Accuracy & Distance – Balances power and control off the tee.
Proximity to Hole – Indicates precision on approach shots.

Recent Tournament Impact and Global Influence

Since joining LIV Golf, Rahm has won three individual events and two team championships, proving his ability to excel in alternative formats. His presence has elevated the league’s competitiveness and drawn new fans globally.

Meanwhile, players like Scheffler and McIlroy continue excelling on the PGA Tour, especially in signature events and majors. However, Rahm’s versatility across tours strengthens his claim as the world’s best.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Golf Player in the World

Who is currently ranked number one in golf?

As of October 2025, Jon Rahm holds the top spot in the Official World Golf Ranking, surpassing Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy based on recent performance and tournament results.

How does the Official World Golf Ranking work?

The OWGR calculates points based on player performance over a two-year rolling period, weighted by field strength and tournament importance. Wins in majors and strong fields yield more points.

Has Jon Rahm won a major championship?

Yes, Jon Rahm has won two major championships: the 2021 U.S. Open and the 2023 Open Championship, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure at the highest level.

Why isn't Tiger Woods the best golfer anymore?

Tiger Woods remains one of the greatest golfers ever, but chronic injuries and limited competition since 2020 have reduced his playing schedule. He is not currently ranked among the top 50 active players.

Does playing in LIV Golf affect world ranking points?

LIV Golf events now contribute to the OWGR as of 2024, allowing players like Jon Rahm and Brooks Koepka to earn ranking points, though some events carry lower weight than PGA Tour equivalents.