Paige Spiranac has long challenged the conventional narrative in the world of golf, and now she's addressing one of the sport's most pervasive misconceptions: that it is dull, stuffy, and reserved for the elite.
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The 31-year-old former professional golfer and social media influencer, who has gained widespread attention by mixing her expertise with a bold, unapologetic personality, recently launched her new website, Las Paigeas, in partnership with Sportsgrid. The venture marks a major step in expanding her brand beyond golf and into the broader sports landscape. But despite her expanding empire, Spiranac remains committed to reshaping golf's outdated image.
In a recent interview with talkSPORT, Spiranac made it clear that golf doesn't have to adhere to the traditional, buttoned-up image. If proof were needed, she points to the WM Phoenix Open, a tournament that has come to symbolize a fresh and exciting take on the sport.
"The misconception in golf is that it's boring, it's stuffy, it's this elitist sport," Spiranac said. Historically, golf has been associated with quiet, respectful applause and a rigid adherence to etiquette. But the 16th hole at the WM Phoenix Open stands in stark contrast, offering an atmosphere of electric energy, where fans are vocal, and players are even booed for poor shots.
Spiranac argues that this kind of enthusiasm is exactly what golf needs to shake off its image as an exclusive sport for the privileged. "When players miss the green on 16, they get booed. You don't do that in golf," she said. "But it's one of my favorite events to go to. You don't want that every week in golf, but I think it's fun to have a mix of that and the more conservative events."
Her perspective is simple yet powerful—golf can retain its elegance while embracing excitement, creating a balance that will attract younger fans who might otherwise shy away from the sport. "When the WM rolls around, it's all about youth and having fun, and it's a really lively atmosphere," she explained.
Spiranac is more than just a social media figure; she is an influential voice capable of shifting the way golf is perceived. Her unique ability to engage casual fans while drawing on her deep knowledge of the game makes her a formidable presence in the industry. Through her Las Paigeas project, she aims to extend her influence, ensuring that golf's future is not just shaped by its traditionalists, but by a broader, more inclusive audience.
The question now is whether the sport will embrace the changing tide — or resist it.