Paige Spiranac, the former professional golfer turned social media influencer, has once again ignited a firestorm of discussion within the golfing community. Known for her bold opinions and unapologetic approach, Spiranac has built a massive following—over 4 million on Instagram and 1.6 million on TikTok—by blending her golf expertise with a charismatic online presence. Her latest proposal, aimed at addressing the persistent issue of “shine” on golf greens, has stirred passionate reactions, dividing fans and players alike. This innovative suggestion, which challenges long-standing traditions in golf, underscores Spiranac’s role as a catalyst for change in a sport often tethered to its conventional roots.
The concept of “shine” on golf greens refers to the glossy, uneven surface that can develop on putting greens due to heavy foot traffic, improper maintenance, or unrepaired ball marks. This phenomenon can alter the ball’s roll, frustrating players and affecting the quality of play. Spiranac’s proposal, shared in a recent post on X, calls for a rethinking of how golfers address this issue. She suggests a standardized technique for repairing ball marks, combined with stricter enforcement of green maintenance etiquette. “Hot take: If you can’t fix your ball mark on the green, you shouldn’t be allowed to play. It takes two seconds and requires no skill,” she wrote, emphasizing the simplicity of the task and its importance to course preservation. Her method Mahler’s method involves a specific tool and technique to ensure uniformity in repairs, aiming to reduce shine and maintain smoother putting surfaces.
The golfing community’s response has been polarized. Supporters applaud Spiranac’s willingness to confront a seemingly mundane but critical issue. A 2024 report highlighted that a course hosting 100 rounds daily can accumulate over 10,000 ball marks monthly, each potentially contributing to shine if left unrepaired. Fans on X echoed her sentiments, with one commenting, “She’s right—fixing ball marks is basic courtesy. It’s about respecting the game and the course.” Others praised her for sparking a broader conversation about course maintenance, suggesting her influence could push golf courses to adopt clearer guidelines or even provide on-site training for players.
However, detractors argue that Spiranac’s proposal oversimplifies a complex issue. Some traditionalists view her approach as an overreach, insisting that existing etiquette—repairing ball marks with a divot tool—is sufficient if followed. Critics on X pointed out that shine results from multiple factors, including soil type, grass species, and course traffic, not just unrepaired ball marks. One user remarked, “Blaming players alone ignores the bigger picture. Courses need better maintenance crews, not just stricter rules for golfers.” Others questioned the feasibility of enforcing her proposed standards, especially at public courses with high volumes of casual players.
Spiranac’s unique position in golf amplifies the debate. As a former NCAA Division I golfer who led San Diego State University to a Mountain West Championship in 2015, she brings credibility to her suggestions. Yet, her transition from professional golfer to influencer, coupled with her provocative online persona, often invites skepticism. Her critics argue that her influence stems more from her 4 million Instagram followers and appearances in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit than from her brief professional career, which included one win on the Cactus Tour. This tension—between her athletic background and her media stardom—fuels the divide in how her ideas are received.
Beyond the technical aspects, Spiranac’s proposal raises broader questions about golf’s evolution. The sport, steeped in tradition, has historically resisted change, from dress codes to course management. Spiranac’s call for reform aligns with her previous suggestions, like a simplified course rating system for beginners or a card system to penalize slow play, inspired by the American Junior Golf Association. Each idea reflects her mission to make golf more accessible and enjoyable, particularly for newer players. Her supporters see her as a modernizing force, unafraid to challenge norms, while detractors view her as prioritizing attention over substance.
As the debate unfolds, Spiranac remains undeterred. Her recent collaborations, including her role in the Grass League’s front office and her participation in the 2024 and 2025 Creator Classics, demonstrate her commitment to growing the game. Whether her proposal to fix shine gains traction remains uncertain, but it has undeniably sparked a vital conversation. Golf, like any sport, must balance tradition with innovation, and Spiranac’s voice—bold, polarizing, and influential—ensures that these discussions will continue to shape its future.
