In 2017, the LPGA made waves with a controversial update to its dress code for women golfers. The new rules banned racerback tank tops, plunging necklines, leggings, and workout gear—sparkling a lot of debates in the process. On top of that, skirts, shorts, and skorts now had to be long enough to avoid any wardrobe mishaps when players were bending over. Let’s not forget the added requirement for “appropriate attire” at Pro-Am parties. It felt like the LPGA was tightening the reins on what’s acceptable on and off the course.

A lot of the pros, and golf fans did oppose the restrictions. But one that stood out was the statement made by Paige Spiranac. She penned down an article, saying, “I respect and understand that golf is enveloped in tradition and that certain rules and regulations must be upheld. But as both an ambassador for golf and an advocate for the continued progress of women’s rights and equality in society, I fear that these new rules are stifling the growth of the women’s game.” She also stated that none of the players had ever been dressed in a way that had cast a negative light on the Tour and that the dress code was just a formality. Spiranac never really played for the LPGA Tour, despite that, a lot of people thought it was because of her the new rules were implemented. But what made them think so?

You see, Spiranac mostly opts to put on clothes with plunging necklines, a code that the LPGA Tour does not allow. But whenever she gets criticism, she ensures that she is vocal about it. She has always stood true to her fashion. “Growing up I was forced to wear my mom’s golf clothes because there weren’t any other options for me. As a 13-year-old I never felt comfortable in what I was wearing, which made me feel very self-conscious and unconfident,” she once reflected on her journey. Three years later, her stance on the dress code remains the same.

Spiranac appeared in the latest episode of 105.3 The Fan Live at Radio Row in New Orleans and was asked if she was why the regulations were brought about. Taking to this, she stated how people think that the case, but as mentioned earlier, she never really played for the Tour. Her influence, however, has mostly been a rebellious one, where she motivates women to wear whatever they like, and that is what she strictly stands for.

She added, “I just think that they shouldn’t have strict dress codes at public golf courses at Country Clubs and in pro golf. I think that’s fine, but you’ll grow the game a lot more if you just allow people to get out there in clothes that they already have in their closets because golf is expensive. Golf is closer expensive and I think a lot of people don’t get into the game because of the restrictions on the dress code and I think if you eliminate that, then more people will get into it.”

While Paige Spiranac might now be a rather bold individual, she fell victim to cyberbullying initially for her social media presence. And not just that. As she turned pro back in 2015, she realized it was very difficult to get into the LPGA Tour, and she started struggling on the course too. And guess what? All of these factors were what led her to become the influencer that she is today.

Paige Spiranac is proud of her contributions to the golf world

Amidst these challenges, Paige Spiranac created a community. She quickly captivated audiences and became an internet sensation, racking up millions of followers across multiple platforms. Her online presence also gave her the perfect platform to champion important causes like body positivity and mental health in sports. She became a voice of encouragement, inspiring others, especially young girls to chase their dreams without fear of judgment or criticism. Needless to say, she’s become a prominent voice for change in the golf industry.

When asked if she has been able to bring about changes in the golf world with her influence, Spiranac said, “It’s cool when I first started doing this. Now, 10 years ago there was no career path to do what I’m doing today and so I just had to figure it out and I made some mistakes along the way. I’m really happy with the brand and the business that I built. And now there are so many other Women in golf who have been able to do what I do by following in my footsteps and the Same on the men’s side as well. They are a little bit different than I’ve done. but it’s Blossomed and it’s cool to be a part of that really like the OG portion of it.”

Alongside her career, she has also used her platform to shine a light on charitable causes that matter to her, showing her commitment to making a positive impact. What do you think of Paige Spiranac and LPGA Tour’s dress code? Let us know in the comments below.