Amid the buzz surrounding the premiere of Happy Gilmore 2, Paige Spiranac didn’t just turn heads on the red carpet—she used the spotlight to deliver a powerful message that echoed far beyond the glamour of the event.
At 32, Spiranac took full advantage of the moment to defend her style, her body, and her right to dress as she chooses.
“I try to embrace who I am when I talk about it,” she told PEOPLE. “My main message is always: do what you want, wear what you want. And for me, that means wearing clothes that are a little sexier, more form-fitting—but also finding my own style.”
Paige Spiranac
X / @PaigeSpiranac
Paige Spiranac Responds to Critics of Her Wardrobe Choices
Spiranac is no stranger to controversy. Since breaking away from golf’s traditional dress codes, she’s faced frequent criticism for wearing outfits like sleeveless tops and leggings—clothing that some have labeled “disrespectful to the game” or “too revealing.”
But for her, every wardrobe choice is a statement of comfort and freedom. “I’m an athlete and I like what I wear. I feel very comfortable in what I wear,” she said. Her broader goal: to inspire other women, especially young girls.
“I don’t want girls growing up feeling insecure about their bodies or hearing ‘no’ all the time—‘cover up,’ ‘you can’t wear that.’ They should be proud of their bodies, especially considering how hard they work to eat well and exercise.”
She’s maintained that mindset even in the face of the harshest online comments. In April, after posting a photo wearing bike shorts, a user wrote: “Had to start that second shot with your butt in the camera. Very classy, Paige.” Her reply was unapologetic:
“I used to have no separation between my back and my thighs—and now I’ve got this. It’s still not perfect, but I’ve worked harder than ever in the gym and on my diet. Of course I’m going to show it off! I’m proud of my body and how much effort I’ve put in to reach my fitness goals.”
Paige Spiranac
X / @PaigeSpiranac
Paige Spiranac
Instagram / @_paige.renee
From the Golf Course to Hollywood
While continuing to challenge stereotypes in sports and on social media, Spiranac is now stepping into the entertainment world with a cameo in Happy Gilmore 2. Though her role is brief, it was a career milestone—and a dream come true.
“It was incredible. I got to shoot my scene with Adam Sandler, and he did the iconic ‘Happy Gilmore’ swing right in front of me,” she said with excitement. “I had a line, and I was shaking—I was so nervous. But it was such a thrilling experience and a true honor. First, just being in the movie—it’s one of my all-time favorites. And second, getting to work with Adam Sandler.”
This new chapter in Spiranac’s journey is more than a Hollywood debut—it’s a testament to how she’s turned criticism into opportunity. From golf greens to film sets, Paige Spiranac continues to walk her own path—with confidence, style, and a clear message: talent, authenticity, and self-love don’t need permission to shine.
