Women in golf have come a long way in their quest for equality within the sport. Despite golf being famously known as a gentleman’s game, women had to break through numerous barriers to claim their well-deserved place on the greens. Paige Spiranac, a prominent golf influencer who may not actively compete but remains deeply connected to the struggles women face in golf, recently stepped up to defend her friend and fellow golfer, Lexi Thompson, in the face of unfair criticism.
Not long ago, Lexi Thompson made her debut on the men’s PGA Tour at the Shriners Children’s Open. Although she didn’t make the cut, her impressive efforts garnered support from the female golf community. However, some individuals were more concerned about her participation in a men’s event rather than focusing on her performance.
In a recent episode of her podcast “Playing a Round with Paige,” Spiranac addressed the issue and passionately defended Thompson. Spiranac commended Thompson for her remarkable composure and performance, stating, “Way to go, Lexi. I think she blew everyone away. She was poised, and she played exceptionally well.”
Despite her efforts on the PGA Tour, Thompson faced unwarranted criticism from online trolls. Spiranac continued to stand by the young golfer, emphasizing that Thompson played from the men’s tees, and her performance deserved recognition and respect.
Spiranac also shared a personal experience of meeting Thompson before a significant game, highlighting the LPGA player’s calm demeanor. She recalled, “So, last time I talked to you, I was about to go to Vegas, and Lexi Thompson was about to tee off. I was there, I talked to her, she was cool, calm, and collected.”
In a previous podcast episode, Spiranac praised Thompson for her early years in golf, acknowledging her as a prodigy who started winning events as young as 12. She vehemently supported Thompson’s right to compete on the PGA Tour, stating, “For people to say that she doesn’t deserve it, she’s been in the spotlight for such a long time. And I can’t think of someone more deserving of this opportunity.”
While Thompson may not have made the cut, her historic attempt at the PGA Tour deserves recognition. Thompson became the seventh female golfer to compete in a PGA Tour event, adding her name to the list of trailblazing female golfers. Her journey serves as an inspiration to other female golfers and a testament to the progress made by women in the sport. Paige Spiranac’s unwavering support for her friend Lexi Thompson exemplifies the unity and resilience of women in golf.
