In the heart of the legendary Augusta National, where glamour and tradition of the Masters intertwine, an unexpected controversy erupted this week, shifting the spotlight from the green to the wardrobe of one of the most media-visible figures off the course. Jena Sims, wife of golf champion Brooks Koepka, found herself at the centre of a storm of criticism after choosing a daring outfit for the third day of the tournament. And her response was as direct as it was forceful.
Jena Sims, accustomed to the exclusive environment of the Masters – with a presence guaranteed for over a decade – did not let the online attacks intimidate her. In a video shared on her Instagram Stories, the model and actress spoke openly: “People are so angry. I’m receiving criticism for my outfit on Thursday. I have two things to say.” Her confidence reveals the experience of someone who knows Augusta’s unwritten rules better than many of her detractors.
And what strong arguments did she bring? Firstly, she demystified the critics’ ignorance: “I can almost guarantee that no one commenting has ever been to the Masters. This is my tenth or eleventh year. I can assure you that no one was bothered by seeing two or three centimetres of my abdomen.” A sharp blow that disarms those judging without understanding the context.
The second point from Sims is a lesson in wisdom: “I don’t accept criticism from those who wouldn’t ask for advice.” Demonstrating elegance and style, she revealed her look for the following day – vintage Dolce & Gabbana, a Colt Gaia mini skirt, Bottega Veneta bag, Diff glasses, and Stephanie Gottlieb earrings – proving that her clothing choices are always carefully considered, with class and sophistication.
The piece that sparked controversy was a green Masters set from Ancora, consisting of a crop top and matching trousers, with the abdomen on show, available on Revolve. The boldness did not please everyone, including the brand AT&T, which provoked with a sarcastic comment: “Why did we think you were at Coachella?” Sims’s reply was succinct and exemplary: “@att, do better.”
Curiously, this controversy arises in the same week that another figure from the golf world, Paige Spiranac, also caught media attention with a green and white dress with a pronounced neckline, receiving, however, a much more positive online reception. Two women, one stage, completely opposite reactions – and the focus away from sporting performance to what they wear.
This episode recalls an old debate in the golf world: the constant and often unfair attention given to the image of women involved in the sport. From Michelle Wie, whose talent was often overshadowed by obsessive coverage of her appearance, to Paulina Gretzky, whose presence at the Masters alongside Dustin Johnson became almost as media-worthy for her style as for her company, Augusta National remains silent in the face of this phenomenon.
Despite the evolution of the times and the digital transformation that amplifies and accelerates criticism, the question remains: who sets the rules of what is acceptable within the “cordons” of Augusta National? While Brooks Koepka fights to win the major title he still lacks – being three under par after 36 holes and on his way to his third Major – the real battle seems to be happening away from the fairways, on social media and behind the scenes of fashion.
Jena Sims did not stay silent and showed that, when you have experience and confidence, criticism is just noise. Augusta may be a temple of golf, but it is also the stage for a broader debate about freedom, style, and the voice of women in this universe. And this time, her message was clear: other people’s opinions do not define who she is on or off the course.
