Max Homa used to be one of golf’s most entertaining voices on Twitter-now rebranded as X. Known for his sharp wit, self-deprecating humor, and viral “swing roast” videos, Homa wasn’t just a Tour player-he was a fan favorite in the digital world. But somewhere between the jokes and the leaderboard updates, something changed.
Ahead of this week’s John Deere Classic, the six-time PGA Tour winner revealed that he’s stepping back from X, citing the growing hostility and mental drain the platform brings. And he didn’t sugarcoat it.
“It’s a safe haven for a**holes,” Homa said. “Sorry, PGA Tour.”
While Paige Spiranac, golf’s most-followed social media personality, continues to thrive on the platform-often calling it her go-to for fan interaction-Homa’s experience has soured. What used to be a place for laughs has turned into something toxic.
“You Wouldn’t Sit at a Table With Someone That Mean”
Homa explained that the decision wasn’t about disconnecting from fans. Quite the opposite. He loves the energy of in-person connections and crowd banter. But online? “People say things to you on there that they’d never say to your face,” he said. “If someone was that rude to you at dinner, you’d get up and leave.”
He’s not alone. A 2023 study by the Anti-Defamation League found that 52% of Americans have experienced harassment on social media-and public figures like Homa often bear the brunt. Add to that the rise in sports gambling and fan frustration, and it’s a recipe for hostility.
It hasn’t helped that Homa’s 2025 season has been rough. Once ranked 41st in the world, he’s dropped to 99th after missing seven cuts in 16 events. His best finish was a respectable T12 at The Masters, but the rest has been a grind-including a missed cut at last week’s Rocket Mortgage Classic.
Despite that, he remains grounded and refreshingly honest. “It took me a while to catch on to how impactful that can be,” he said of the online hate. “And how much of a waste of energy.”
Homa hasn’t ruled out a return to social media someday-but for now, he’s choosing clarity over chaos. And maybe, a little more quiet.
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