“I like being sexy” When Paige Spiranac Got Honest About Her Marketing Strategy
Paige Spiranac, a former professional golfer turned social media influencer, has never shied away from embracing her unique approach to building a brand in the world of golf. With over four million Instagram followers and a significant presence on platforms like YouTube and X, Spiranac has redefined what it means to be a golf influencer. In a resurfaced Q&A session from 2020, recently highlighted by Sportskeeda, Spiranac candidly discussed her marketing strategy, emphasizing her comfort with her femininity and her commitment to delivering value beyond her appearance. Her openness about leveraging her looks while providing substantial content has sparked both admiration and debate, positioning her as a trailblazer in sports media.
Spiranac’s journey began on the golf course, where she competed professionally on the Cactus Tour, securing a victory at the Las Colinas Club in Arizona. However, after failing to earn an LPGA Tour card in 2016, she pivoted to a career in content creation. This transition allowed her to connect with a broader audience, sharing golf tutorials, witty commentary, and glimpses into her personal style. During the Q&A, Spiranac addressed her marketing approach head-on, stating, “I like being sexy. I like being feminine. And I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that.” This statement encapsulates her unapologetic embrace of her image, challenging the notion that a woman must choose between being attractive and being taken seriously.
Her strategy is multifaceted. While Spiranac acknowledges that her appearance draws attention, she is deliberate about pairing it with meaningful content. “I think I can be sexy and also have an opinion,” she said, rejecting the idea that these qualities are mutually exclusive. Her golf tutorials are designed to offer practical advice, helping fans improve their game, while her podcast, Playing a Round with Paige Renee, delivers humor and engaging commentary. This blend of entertainment and expertise ensures that her platform remains relevant, even as she leans into her glamorous persona. Spiranac’s approach reflects a broader shift in how athletes and influencers navigate personal branding in the digital age.
The golf world has not always been receptive to Spiranac’s style. When the LPGA introduced a stricter dress code in 2017, limiting revealing attire, critics pointed to Spiranac as an example of “oversexualizing” the sport. In response, she penned an op-ed for Fortune, defending her right to express herself through her clothing choices. “Telling young girls they have to cover up is such a negative message,” she later told the Toronto Sun. “It’s showing them that there’s something wrong with their bodies.” Her stance resonates with a younger generation of fans who see her as a champion of body positivity and self-confidence.
Spiranac’s marketing savvy extends beyond social media. She has secured partnerships with brands like Parsons Xtreme Golf, PointsBet, and 18Birdies, leveraging her platform to promote golf-related products. In 2021, she became a brand ambassador and equity stakeholder for PointsBet, and in 2022, Maxim named her the “Sexiest Woman Alive,” a testament to her cultural impact. Her recent appointment to the PGA Tour’s Creator Council in December 2024 further solidifies her influence, as she collaborates with other creators to enhance fan engagement and grow the sport’s digital presence.
Critics, however, have accused Spiranac of relying too heavily on her looks. In response to a troll mocking her for a revealing post during the 2025 Masters, she clarified, “Hi, I never said that,” when accused of complaining about being sexualized. Instead, she has consistently defended her choices, emphasizing that her confidence stems from hard work and self-acceptance. “I’m proud of my body and how hard I’ve been working to achieve my fitness goals,” she told People after backlash over a video showcasing her physique. This resilience has helped her navigate cyberbullying and maintain a positive outlook, as evidenced by her January 2025 Instagram Q&A, where she shared, “I have never felt more confident and secure and at peace with my life.”
Spiranac’s story is one of evolution. From a college golfer at the University of Arizona and San Diego State to a social media juggernaut, she has carved out a space where she can be both glamorous and knowledgeable. Her ability to balance sex appeal with substance has not only earned her a massive following but also sparked conversations about gender, authenticity, and branding in sports. As she takes on new roles, like her position with the Grass League announced in May 2025, Spiranac continues to challenge stereotypes and inspire others to embrace their individuality.
