The $1 million Internet Invitational — meant to be a celebration of influencer golf — has now been overshadowed by an explosive controversy involving one of the sport’s biggest stars. Paige Spiranac, golf’s most recognizable influencer, found herself at the epicenter of a cheating allegation that has sent shockwaves across social media, the tournament, and the wider golf world.
The drama unfolded during a high-pressure moment late in the competition. Cameras captured a split-second action in which Spiranac appeared to press down the grass around her partner’s ball — a move that triggered immediate debate over whether she had unintentionally improved the lie, a violation of golf’s strict rules.
At first, it seemed like a passing observation… until Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, made a joking remark suggesting she might be “setting up the shot.” That offhand comment detonated into a full-blown scandal within minutes. What began as a casual quip rapidly morphed into viral accusations, with fans, critics, and even players weighing in on whether Spiranac had crossed a line.
Despite her team losing the hole, the outcome no longer mattered — the controversy had already taken center stage.
Paige, normally composed and charismatic under pressure, appeared visibly devastated when confronted about the incident. Cameras captured her fighting back tears, overwhelmed by the scrutiny and the intensity of the online reaction. It was a raw, human moment that exposed the emotional toll of influencer stardom — where every movement becomes ammunition for public judgment.
The golf community is now fiercely divided.
Supporters insist it was clearly an honest mistake, blown out of proportion by trolls and sensationalism. Critics argue that a $1M tournament demands knowledge of the rules — and that even a minor infraction cannot be ignored at that level.
The incident has sparked a massive conversation about influencer golf’s identity crisis:
Is it entertainment?
Is it sport?
Can it be both?
Complicating the legacy of this already dramatic event is the tragic passing of beloved participant Cody B. Frankie, whose loss has cast an emotional shadow over players and fans alike. Many now view the tournament as a bittersweet turning point — a mix of joy, heartbreak, and controversy the community won’t soon forget.
One thing is certain:
This scandal has changed influencer golf forever.
And Paige Spiranac, willingly or not, is now at the heart of the debate about what comes next.
