Callaway Golf CEO Chip Brewer has admitted that the company approved a controversial advertisement featuring the YouTube channel Good Good Golf before it was published, acknowledging that the approval process failed.
The advertisement, which promoted a co-branded driver, showed Good Good co-founder Garrett Clark shoving a woman to the ground before taking the club. The video was subsequently deleted.
In a late-night statement, Brewer stated, "While the video was produced by Good Good, it was approved by Callaway prior to posting. That approval should never have happened. Mistakes were made, and we are taking the matter very seriously."
He emphasized that the content was inappropriate and did not reflect the company's values, adding, "We are unequivocally against discrimination, domestic violence, or threatening behavior of any kind."
Following the backlash and the video's removal, Good Good had issued its own apology, stating the ad depicted actions not aligned with their brand values. Callaway initially responded by expressing disappointment and appreciation for Good Good's addressing the issue, aiming for a more inclusive space in golf.
Brewer confirmed that the issue was escalated immediately after its seriousness was recognized, leading to the video's prompt removal. He detailed that both internal and external investigations are underway, and changes have been implemented in the approval processes to prevent future occurrences.
The PGA Tour also commented on the advertisement, stating, "The PGA Tour believes in golf’s ability to bring people together and create a welcoming environment for all. We do not condone violence in any form, and the since-deleted video does not reflect our values or commitment to inclusivity and respect."
Callaway has been involved with Good Good Golf for a co-branded driver, and the PGA Tour is sponsoring the upcoming Good Good Championship in November.