Callaway Golf CEO Issues Apology for Controversial Advertisement

Callaway Golf’s CEO, Chip Brewer, publicly apologized on Tuesday for a controversial advertisement that has drawn significant backlash online. The ad, which featured a male golfer physically shoving a female golfer to the ground, was criticized for its portrayal of violence against women.

The advertisement, created by Good Good Golf, was intended to promote a co-branded driver and was released last week. It depicted Good Good co-founder Garrett Clark warning former Division I golfer Alexis Miestowski in a threatening manner, stating, ‘Do not touch my new driver,’ before pushing her down. Following the backlash, the ad has since been removed from circulation.

Brewer acknowledged that the ad had been approved by Callaway prior to its release, stating, ‘That approval should never have happened. Mistakes were made, and we are taking the matter very seriously.’ He emphasized the company’s commitment to inclusivity and expressed sincere regret for the video.

In a social media post dated August 22, Good Good Golf also issued an apology, asserting that it has always aimed to make golf more inclusive. However, the company did not respond immediately to requests for further comment.

Reactions to Brewer’s apology have been mixed, with some social media users expressing disappointment in Callaway’s handling of the situation. One user, identifying as a golfer who uses Callaway products, criticized the company for framing the incident merely as a ‘mistake,’ pointing out that the video had received prior approval.

Others suggested that Callaway should take further action, such as donating to organizations like the Ladies Professional Golf Association and domestic violence charities, to demonstrate a commitment to addressing the issues raised by the ad.

The controversy comes at a time when the golf industry is experiencing growth among female players. According to the National Golf Foundation, there has been a 45% increase in female golfers from 2020 to 2025, compared to a 12% increase in male golfers during the same period. Despite this growth, women still represent only 28% of the golfing population, although this is the highest percentage recorded to date.