Paige Spiranac says Tiger Woods gave her the “greatest experience” of her life — a chipping lesson and a hug that left her jacket smelling like “success”
20:03 ET, 28 May 2025Updated 20:03 ET, 28 May 2025
Spiranac competed in her first LPGA Qualifying Tournament in 2016 but did not earn a card to play on the professional circuit(Image: Getty)
Paige Spiranac says she didn’t wash her jacket after Tiger Woods hugged her — because he smelled like “success.”
Social media influencer and former professional golfer Paige Spiranac, who correctly predicted the first two major winners of 2025, revealed one of the most memorable moments of her life involved none other than Tiger Woods — and his cologne.
In a recent interview, Spiranac described the interaction as deeply personal and unforgettable, offering fans a rare behind-the-scenes story involving one of golf’s most iconic figures. Though the exact timing and location of their meeting remains unclear, the experience left a powerful impression on the 32-year-old internet star, who now boasts more than 4 million Instagram followers — notably more than Woods himself.
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“He gave me a chipping lesson once. It was like the greatest experience of my life,” Spiranac said on the ‘Vanity Index’ podcast. “He smells so good, by the way… like that was the first thing I noticed.”
The moment wasn’t just about golf technique — it was about presence. Spiranac, who is known for her blend of golf commentary and lifestyle content, couldn’t help but comment on the physical proximity to Woods and how it made her feel.
“I remember he hugged me, and he smelled so good, and I didn’t take my jacket off or wash it for an embarrassingly long time because I was like, ‘I feel and smell like a winner,’” she added.
Spiranac has become one of golf’s most recognizable media personalities, despite never playing on the LPGA Tour. A former Division I golfer at the University of Arizona and San Diego State, Spiranac briefly competed on the developmental Cactus Tour before transitioning to media. Her outspoken, glamorous image has helped bridge golf with pop culture, making her one of the most followed golf-related figures online.
While some fans may raise eyebrows at her playful tone, Spiranac has long been an unapologetic supporter of Woods — even during times when public sentiment was divided.
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Reflecting on Woods’ 2009 scandal involving infidelity, Spiranac previously shared her thoughts during a podcast episode, defending the golf legend during one of the most turbulent times of his career.
“Even when all this was happening, I think people were being too hard on him. You look at your own life and the things you’ve done, no one lives a perfect life, we all make mistakes,” she said.
Her words show a deeper respect for Woods’ humanity and perseverance, not just his golfing accolades.
Although Woods, now 49, is unlikely to compete in a major tournament this year following Achilles surgery, he remains one of the most admired figures in sports. His next realistic opportunity for a return could come at the 2026 Masters, but even in semi-retirement, his influence still ripples through the game — and social media.
