In the ever-evolving world of golf influencers, Grace Charis has emerged as a formidable rival to Paige Spiranac, captivating audiences with her bold style and growing prowess on the course. Recently, the 22-year-old social media sensation turned heads by playing golf on a sun-soaked beach, donning a daring swimsuit that sparked widespread admiration and debate. The eye-catching ensemble, a vibrant bikini that pushed the boundaries of traditional golf attire, led fans to proclaim her a contender for the title of America’s most beautiful golfer. With her meteoric rise, Charis is not only challenging Spiranac’s reign but also redefining how golf is presented in the digital age.
Charis, a California native now residing in Texas, has amassed a staggering online following, with 3.7 million Instagram followers, 3 million on TikTok, and 1.5 million on YouTube. These numbers rival Spiranac’s 4 million Instagram followers, surpassing her 1.6 million on TikTok. Unlike Spiranac, who honed her skills in Division 1 college golf at the University of Arizona and San Diego State, Charis stumbled into golf during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially aiming for a career in news broadcasting, she picked up a club at a driving range and found her calling. Her early posts, often featuring revealing outfits, were designed to capture attention in the creator space rather than showcase golfing expertise. Yet, her journey has evolved, and she now balances glamour with a genuine commitment to improving her game.
The beachside golf session that recently set social media ablaze was a quintessential Grace Charis moment. Filmed against the backdrop of crashing waves and golden sand, Charis executed her signature slow-motion swings, blending athleticism with a playful, carefree aesthetic. Her swimsuit, described by fans as “daring” and “stunning,” drew comparisons to Spiranac’s bold fashion choices, which have long polarized golf traditionalists. Comments flooded in, with one fan writing, “Golf never looked so good,” while another quipped, “The dress code has changed for the better!” The post garnered thousands of likes, cementing Charis’s ability to captivate and engage her audience. Her content, which includes everything from golf tips to glamorous photoshoots, resonates with a new generation of fans, many of whom are drawn to her unapologetic approach.
Despite their similarities, Charis’s path diverges from Spiranac’s in significant ways. Spiranac, a former professional golfer, transitioned to influencing after struggling to break into the LPGA. Charis, however, never intended to be a golfer, yet she has worked diligently to improve, boasting an impressive handicap of five. She trains with a professional swing coach and plays four to five times a week, often at prestigious venues like Stonebridge Ranch Country Club in Texas. Her dedication was evident when she celebrated her first hole-in-one at Pinehurst in North Carolina, a milestone she shared with her millions of followers. While Spiranac’s handicap of +2 places her ahead in technical skill, Charis’s rapid progress suggests she’s closing the gap.
The rivalry between Charis and Spiranac is more perception than reality, as neither has publicly spoken ill of the other. Charis, in an interview with the Daily Mail, downplayed comparisons, stating, “I don’t know much of her stuff. It doesn’t come up on my feed, either. She seems nice and a good golfer.” This diplomatic response hints at a mutual respect, though some interpreted it as a subtle jab. Both women have faced criticism for their provocative attire, with golf purists like Rory McIlroy labeling influencers like them “entertainment adjacent.” Charis counters this by arguing that her content, while bold, exposes new audiences to golf. “Even if people are here for the looks, they’re still seeing the game,” she told Golf Monthly. “I want to share my love for it.”
Charis’s beach golf video is more than a viral moment; it’s a testament to her ability to merge sport, style, and social media savvy. Her collaborations, such as a recent photoshoot with Instagram personality TooTurntTony, showcase her versatility, blending humor and creativity. While Spiranac remains the undisputed queen of golf influencers, Charis’s rise signals a shift in the landscape. Her unorthodox entry into golf, coupled with her improving skills and fearless fashion, positions her as a worthy rival. As she continues to push boundaries, Charis is not just playing golf—she’s reshaping how the world sees it, one daring swing at a time.
