Paige Spiranac Expresses Emotional Struggles at Internet Invitational

During the $1 million Internet Invitational, golf influencer Paige Spiranac became emotional, sharing how difficult it has been to deal with negative comments online.

In a series of videos on her Instagram Story, she mentioned that the recent criticisms brought back “anxiety” from her past.

Spiranac posted a screenshot of some “recent DMs” filled with hurtful messages. One read, “I hate you. This stupid woman thinks she’s so much better than everyone on her internet invites. Go kill yourself, you idiot.”

Feeling overwhelmed, Spiranac broke down in tears, expressing a desire to be accepted in the golf community.

“For some reason, this hatred really hit home for me,” she said. “I’ve struggled socially my whole life… making friends, keeping friends, navigating social interactions. It’s been tough for me to read cues and say the right thing in social settings.”

“It might seem odd considering what I do, but I’m not someone who’s easily liked… I don’t enjoy being in large crowds. So, when I participated in the invitation, I felt a sense of belonging in this industry,” she added.

Sponsored by Dave Portnoy, the Internet Invitational draws considerable attention, increasing the pressure on the 48 golf content creators involved.

Spiranac’s team progressed through the opening round, and she is now competing against 23 other teams for the $1 million grand prize.

“It was really tough to see such a negative response… I realize there are bigger issues in life than wanting to be liked. Yet, I’ve spent so long searching for a place to fit in. At the internet invitation, I felt genuinely good about myself… It was a nice feeling,” Spiranac said.

“But then, looking back, all those childhood insecurities resurface, and it’s as if they confirm that I’m not liked, that I’m annoying, and, well, it hurts. In those moments, it feels like a joke,” she added.

In another post, she elaborated on her struggle with anxiety: “Hello, good morning. Apologies for being so emotional last night. I appreciate all the supportive messages,” Spiranac wrote. “I’m saving my deep, dark anxiety for my next therapy session (laughs).”

Three winners will share the $1 million prize during a pre-recorded event produced by Barstool and Bob Does Sports, which will be broadcast over the coming weeks.