Callaway and Good Good apologize after ad showing violence against woman sparks backlash
Callaway and the golf media brand Good Good withdrew a co-branded driver ad after it depicted a man shoving a woman, prompting apologies from both companies and criticism from the PGA Tour.
A co-branded driver advertisement released by golf equipment maker Callaway and the online golf media company Good Good featured a scene in which co-founder Garrett Clark shoulder-checked Alexis Miestowski to the ground. The video was removed after viewers condemned the depiction of violence against a woman.
Callaway chief executive Chip Brewer said the company approved the ad and issued an apology, stating, "As we deal with the consequences of our mistake and complete our investigations, I want to make it clear that we sincerely apologize for the video. The content was inappropriate and does not reflect our values. To be clear: We are unequivocally against discrimination, domestic violence, or threatening behavior of any kind."
Good Good also released a statement saying the brand has always aimed to make golf more inclusive and will continue that mission.
PGA Tour chief executive Brian Rolapp expressed disappointment with Good Good’s initial response, describing it as defensive and delayed, but noted that the company’s recent actions showed improvement. He added that the situation remains fluid and the tour will monitor developments before the Good Good Championship scheduled for November in Austin, Texas.
The controversy highlights tension between traditional golf institutions and newer internet-focused influencers, as the PGA Tour seeks to balance its historic image with efforts to attract younger audiences through partnerships with digital creators.