Like most golf fans, my first-hand knowledge of Paige Spiranac’s golf game is limited to trick-shot videos and Instagram posts. She’s not a member of a professional tour, nor is she ranked. She’s a social media phenom, which is why controversy swelled after Spiranac received a sponsor invite to the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters (a Ladies European Tour event).
But wait, isn’t that the point of sponsor exemptions? That they can be given at the sponsor’s discretion. No rankings or trophies required.
Invitations are often given out to rising stars, local favorites, over-comers and former champions who have lost the edge.