Good Good Golf, a prominent YouTube channel focused on golf, is facing significant backlash and consequences after releasing a poorly conceived advertisement. Major retailers, including Dick's Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, and PGA Tour Superstore, have removed the brand's merchandise from their shelves. The controversy also casts doubt on the future of a sponsored PGA Tour event.
The ad, intended as a parody of the movie "Obsession," depicted a founder, Garrett Clark, shoving a woman to the ground with the line, "do not touch my new driver." The video was quickly pulled down after drawing immediate criticism for its portrayal of a man pushing a woman. Good Good Golf issued an apology, stating the actions were "not aligned with our values as a brand" and vowed to continue promoting inclusivity in golf.
Callaway Golf, which partnered with Good Good Golf on a branded driver, initially distanced itself from the ad. However, the club manufacturer later admitted to approving the ad's release, a detail that added to the growing criticism. "We were disappointed in how it played out," said Brian Rolapp, CEO of the PGA Tour. "It was a bit defensive and late." He added that the initial response was "concerning" and "clearly not aligned with PGA TOUR values."
As a result of the controversy, the debut of a new show, "Big Break X Good Good," was delayed after its title sponsor, Golf Galaxy, reportedly requested its name be removed. The PGA Tour event, the Good Good Championship in Austin, Texas, is also reportedly at risk of cancellation, with Rolapp describing the situation as "fluid."
Garrett Clark later posted a video on X, taking accountability for the ad and explaining the marketing team's concept. He emphasized that no physical harm was done and that the ad was a bad idea from its inception.
Some observers argue that the reaction has gone too far, likening the response to "cancel culture." They contend that while the ad was undeniably poor and should not have been released, the severity of the backlash, including merchandise removal and potential event cancellation, is disproportionate. Critics point out that Callaway Golf, which approved the ad, has not faced similar repercussions from retailers, suggesting a performative aspect to the actions taken against Good Good Golf. The debate continues regarding the appropriate consequences for the ad, balancing accountability for a misguided marketing attempt with the continued growth and appeal of golf content creators like Good Good Golf.