The golf world is no stranger to drama and controversy! But a recent string of incidents left players and fans alike feeling uneasy. From unexpected twists on the course to unsettling revelations off it, the sport is grappling with a new reality. Just days after John Daly’s publicized incident, Lexi Thompson has taken to social media about her struggles. And the latest threat is all too personal.
In a recent revelation, Lexi Thompson spoke out about her harrowing experience with identity theft. The LPGA Tour player took to Instagram, pleading with her fans to beware of scammers pretending to be her, her manager, or even her family. “Hi everybody! Just want to post another story saying that please don’t fall for these pages that are pretending to be me, my manager, my family etc!! These are all FAKE. This is my ONE and ONLY page,” she warned.
The 29-year-old’s warning didn’t stop there. She also revealed that scammers are taking their tactics to other platforms, creating fake Telegram channels to trick fans into thinking they’re communicating with her directly. “I believe there are telegram to make you think you are talking to me,” she said, her frustration and concern evident. “So sorry for all this; I really wish I could do something about it. Please just report the pages!”
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However, weeks ago, John Daly had also found himself at the center of a shocking controversy. He was set to take part in the 517 Golf event in Michigan. But fans were left reeling when the tournament was suddenly canceled. Initially, rumors circulated that Daly’s injury was to blame, but the PGA Tour pro swiftly revealed the truth.
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Daly took to social media and exposed the false information spread by individuals associated with 517 Golf. Moreover, he denied being injured, pointing out that he was preparing for upcoming PGA Tour Champions events. He said, “I am shocked and disappointed that unscrupulous individuals have chosen to tarnish my reputation and defraud my amazing fans!!” and appreciated those who supported him.”
USA Today via Reuters
May 31, 2024; Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA; Lexi Thompson (USA) reacts on the 18th green during the second round of the U.S. Women’s Open golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Long John’s words were laced with outrage and disappointment. Now, with Lexi Thompson’s recent identity theft revelation, the sport is grappling with this unsettling practice. In fact, it wasn’t the first time both of these professionals have warned fans not to get scammed.
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Lexi Thompson’s encounter with deception
Weeks ago, Thompson warned about the same fake account impersonation with her 600K Instagram followers. Her ongoing pleas to the followers suggest that the number of fake accounts impersonating her has reached alarming proportions. She iterated, “They’re scamming people or making them think they’re in relationships with me. I’ve had some try to contact me in person. It’s really getting out of hand… Please, if you see any others, report them. Don’t talk to them!”
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John Daly faced a similar issue in 2018 when a Heritage Auction listed a supposed replica of the Claret Jug. The auctioneers claimed it was the original trophy won by Daly in 1995. However, he corrected them and wrote it as a “FALSE advertisement” on his X handle. He also clarified that he still possesses his original trophy.
These scams have now become a common thing and leave a sour taste on the fans. Now, as the golf world navigates this new reality, fans are urged to remain vigilant and cautious when interacting with their favorite athletes online. If you have any stories regarding these incidents, share them with us in the comments section below.
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