Golf is a game built on tradition, but few traditions stir up as much debate as the simple act of giving a putt. It's a move that can speed up a round or spark a heated argument among playing partners. Now, golf influencer and former collegiate player Paige Spiranac has waded into the fray, making her stance unmistakably clear.
In a candid social media post, Spiranac admitted she not only gives putts but also fully expects the same courtesy in return. "The only problem is I do in fact give putts and expect them to be given to me 😉 lol," she wrote, adding a playful wink to what is often a serious topic among golfers. Her confession taps into a universal question: When is it okay to pick up that ball and call it a gimme?
The controversy around giving putts isn't new. Purists argue that every stroke should be holed out, especially in competitive play. Others see it as a necessary concession to keep the pace of play moving. For Spiranac, who has never shied away from sharing her honest takes on golf etiquette, the issue is personal and practical.
Professional golfer Viktor Hovland recently shared his own philosophy on the matter. "I would say I’m fair," the PGA Tour star told golf.com. "If it’s a tap-in, I’m going to give those putts. But if there’s a chance the other person is going to miss it, then yeah, I’m going to have him putt it out. That’s what we do normally in a stroke-play event. If the other person takes that the wrong way, then so be it." Hovland's approach highlights the fine line between sportsmanship and competitive integrity.
According to golf.com, there are five scenarios where you should never give a putt: when you don't think your opponent will make it, when your opponent asks for it, if it's to win the hole, if they've just hit an awesome shot, or if you've already given out too many. These unwritten rules often cause friction, especially in casual rounds where expectations aren't clearly communicated.
Spiranac's admission comes at a time when golf's culture is evolving. With more casual players hitting the course, the etiquette around gimmes is being reexamined. Her willingness to discuss the issue openly—and with a sense of humor—resonates with a generation that values transparency over rigid tradition. It's a conversation that echoes the recent debate over power and tempo she witnessed at the Women's U.S. Open.
For many golfers, the decision to give a putt comes down to trust and context. Are you playing for bragging rights or just for fun? Is the round moving at a snail's pace? The answer often determines whether a tap-in is waved off or forced to be holed. Spiranac's straightforward approach suggests she values efficiency and camaraderie over strict adherence to the rulebook.
As summer approaches and tee times fill up, the question of giving putts will only grow louder. Whether you agree with Spiranac or side with the purists, one thing is certain: the debate isn't going away anytime soon. So, where do you stand? Will you be giving putts this season, or making everyone earn every single stroke?
