Paige Spiranac has revealed that she has received numerous death threats following her participation in the Internet Invitational, a tournament featuring golf influencers and YouTubers. The event, hosted by Barstool Sports and Bob Does Sports, took place at Cedar Lodge Resort in Ridgedale, Missouri, culminating in a high-stakes final match at Payne’s Valley. Spiranac, alongside teammates Frankie Borrelli and Malosi Togisala, lost the chance to win a $1 million prize on the 18th hole, sparking a wave of backlash from viewers.
During the match, Spiranac was caught on video allegedly improving her lie, which she later claimed was a misunderstanding of the rules. Her actions were scrutinized, especially given that both she and Togisala had been involved in cheating scandals during the tournament. The incident led to widespread criticism, with some viewers interpreting the team’s loss as “karma.”
In an emotional message shared on her Instagram story, Spiranac expressed the severity of the threats she has received. “I’m talking tens of thousands of death threats, people telling me to kill myself,” she stated, describing it as the worst backlash she has faced in her decade-long career. The vitriol directed at her has been so intense that discussions about obtaining a restraining order were considered.
Spiranac has largely remained silent on social media since the match, citing the need to prioritize her mental health. “I just needed to remove myself for my mental health,” she explained, acknowledging her struggle with the desire for acceptance and the pain of public criticism. “It’s not easy, and it hasn’t been easy.”
Despite the controversy, Spiranac maintained that she did not intentionally cheat. “I am painfully, painfully embarrassed that I did not know this rule,” she remarked in her Instagram story, reaffirming her commitment to fair play. She emphasized that cheating in front of a multitude of cameras would be “insane,” and expressed her regret for the misunderstanding.
The Internet Invitational showcased a field of competitors that included notable names such as Brad Dalke and Cody Franke. Following the final match, Spiranac reflected on the intense scrutiny she faced and the personal toll it has taken. “One thing that I really struggle with is wanting to be liked and accepted,” she shared, highlighting the emotional impact of the experience.
As the story continues to unfold, Spiranac’s situation serves as a reminder of the challenges that public figures face in the digital age. The backlash from the Internet Invitational has not only affected her professionally but has also raised conversations about the consequences of online harassment and the importance of mental health awareness.
