John Daly, the 58-year-old golfing icon, ushered in 2025 in a manner that perfectly encapsulates his maverick persona, blending his love for the sport with his characteristic flamboyance. A video posted on his Instagram story captured Daly teeing off, not on a pristine golf course, but on a roadside, sending a golf ball soaring over a road towards a row of buildings. With a cigarette dangling from his lips, Daly, sporting his signature grey hair, bushy beard, and a pair of sparkly gold shoes, ensured the coast was clear before unleashing his powerful drive. The successful shot elicited cheers from his assembled friends, whom he promptly high-fived in celebration, the soundtrack to this unconventional New Year’s tee-off provided by Daly’s own song, “Hit It Hard.” The caption accompanying the video succinctly declared, “Teein’ it into 2025…”
Daly’s New Year’s revelries extended beyond the roadside tee-off. A second video surfaced on social media, showcasing a more communal celebration. Gathered around a table with his friends and his 21-year-old son, John II, Daly engaged in a beer-drinking contest, employing the “shotgunning” technique, where a hole is punched in the can before the contents are rapidly consumed. While Daly’s competitive spirit was evident, he finished last in this particular challenge, acknowledging his defeat with a self-deprecating quip: “Yeah, I lost by a lot… expected.” This lighthearted competition further underscored Daly’s penchant for embracing the unconventional and his ability to find amusement in everyday situations.
These two videos provide a glimpse into Daly’s enduring spirit, his unwavering enthusiasm for golf, and his embrace of a lifestyle that often defies convention. From the unorthodox tee-off location to the playful beer-drinking contest, Daly’s actions resonate with his established image as a rebellious figure in the world of golf. His New Year’s celebration serves as a reminder that, even at 58, Daly remains true to himself, unafraid to express his unique personality and share it with the world.
Daly’s golfing career has been marked by both remarkable achievements and a certain level of notoriety. He has claimed two major championships, the 1991 PGA Championship and the 1995 Open Championship, solidifying his place in golfing history. However, his career has also been punctuated by controversies and unconventional behavior, often overshadowing his undeniable talent. His recent roadside tee-off, while seemingly harmless, echoes this pattern, highlighting his tendency to deviate from the norms of professional golf. Despite this, Daly continues to compete, demonstrating his enduring passion for the sport.
His participation in the PNC Championship in December 2024 alongside his son, John II, further illustrates his ongoing involvement in the golfing world. The event, which also featured Tiger and Charlie Woods, is a testament to Daly’s enduring presence in the sport, even as he approaches his sixties. The Dalys’ victory in the 2021 PNC Championship underscores the competitive fire that still burns within the two-time major champion. Their participation alongside iconic figures like Tiger Woods adds another layer of intrigue to Daly’s continued involvement in professional golf.
John Daly’s New Year’s celebration encapsulates the essence of his persona: unconventional, playful, and unapologetically himself. From the audacious roadside tee-off to the lighthearted beer-drinking competition, Daly’s actions reinforce his image as a maverick who refuses to be confined by the traditional boundaries of professional golf. While his career has been marked by both triumphs and controversies, his enduring passion for the sport remains undeniable. As he enters 2025, John Daly continues to embody the spirit of a true original, captivating audiences with his unique blend of talent, flamboyance, and an unwavering commitment to being himself.
