A promotional video for a Good Good Golf and Callaway Golf collaboration was removed from public platforms after widespread criticism over its depiction of violence against a woman. The ad, released on August 22, 2024, showed a co-founder of Good Good Golf shoving a female member and saying, 'Do not touch my new driver.'
Callaway Golf and Good Good Golf have both publicly apologized for the ad, which was intended to parody the film Obsession. The video was deleted within hours of its release, and both brands issued statements condemning its content.
Good Good Golf’s statement acknowledged the ad did not align with its values. The company, which has 2.3 million YouTube subscribers, said in a post on X (formerly Twitter): 'We posted a video to our channels that ultimately depicted actions that are not aligned with our values as a brand.' The statement added that the video had been removed and that Good Good remains committed to inclusivity in golf.
Callaway Golf initially distanced itself from the ad, calling it disappointing in a statement. However, the company later clarified in a follow-up post that it had approved the ad’s release, contradicting its initial response. The manufacturer stated it was unaware of the ad’s content before publication but confirmed its involvement in the promotional campaign.
The ad featured Good Good co-founder Garrett Clark shoving Alexis Miestowski, a member of the group, while she reached for a limited-edition Callaway driver. The 56-second video sparked immediate backlash on social media, with critics calling it a glorification of violence against women. Prominent golfing accounts and media figures condemned the ad, with some describing it as the 'worst golf club ad ever made.'
Retailers React
Major retailers, including Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, and Target, have carried Good Good Golf’s branded merchandise, which includes apparel and equipment developed in partnership with Callaway. The backlash has led to calls for retailers to reconsider stocking Good Good’s products, though no immediate decisions have been publicly confirmed.
Background: Good Good Golf’s Rise
Good Good Golf, a YouTube-based collective of golf creators, has grown rapidly in recent years, becoming one of the most influential brands among younger golf enthusiasts. Its collaborations with major equipment manufacturers, including Callaway, have expanded its reach. The controversy marks a significant reputational challenge for the brand, which has previously positioned itself as promoting inclusivity in the sport.
The incident has raised questions about brand accountability in influencer-driven marketing, particularly when partnerships involve large corporations. Both Good Good Golf and Callaway have emphasized their commitment to addressing the fallout, though the long-term impact on their reputations and business relationships remains unclear.