Parsons Xtreme Golf (PXG) has entered the ongoing controversy surrounding a promotional video by golf content creator Good Good and Callaway Golf. PXG released an advertisement on its social media channels featuring several of its LPGA Tour players, with the caption, "our drivers play nice with everyone." The ad, accompanied by the hashtag #SheGolfs, is widely seen as a subtle jab at the recent fallout.
The controversy began with an advertisement created by Good Good in collaboration with Callaway Golf to promote a new driver. The video depicted Good Good co-founder Garrett Clark shoving a female member, Alexis Miestowski, to the ground after she reached for the driver. Clark's action, followed by his statement, "Do not touch my new driver," quickly drew widespread criticism.
Good Good issued multiple apologies and removed the advertisement, stating it was "not aligned with our values as a brand" and reaffirming their commitment to making golf more inclusive. Callaway Golf also apologized, acknowledging its approval of the ad before its release. Subsequently, Callaway announced it was severing ties with Good Good and donating $1 million to organizations that combat violence against women.
Following the incident, reports indicated that major retailers such as Dick's Sporting Goods and Golf Galaxy, along with the PGA Tour Superstore, had removed Good Good's merchandise. Concerns have also been raised about the upcoming PGA Tour event sponsored by Good Good, with speculation that the Tour might seek a new sponsor.
PXG, established in 2014, is a relatively new player in the golf equipment market compared to established brands like Callaway. The timing and wording of PXG's new driver advertisement suggest a strategic move to capitalize on the attention surrounding the Good Good and Callaway incident.