Jena Sims responds to the controversy regarding her look at the Masters.

In the heart of the legendary Augusta National, where the 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-savvy figures off the course. Jena Sims, wife of golf champion Brooks Koepka, found herself at the center of a storm of criticism after choosing a bold outfit for the tournament’s third day. Her response was as straightforward as it was forceful.

Jena Sims, accustomed to the exclusive atmosphere of the Masters—having been a regular for over a decade—was not intimidated by the attacks on social media. In a video shared on her Instagram Stories, the model and actress laid it bare: “People are so angry. I’m being criticized for my outfit on Thursday. I have two things to say.” The confidence in her words reveals the experience of someone who knows Augusta’s unwritten rules better than many of her detractors.

And what strong arguments did she bring? First, she debunked the ignorance of her critics: “I can almost guarantee that nobody in the comments has ever been to the Masters. This is my tenth or eleventh year. I can assure you that nobody was bothered by two to three inches of my abdomen.” A precise strike that disarms those who judge without knowing the context.

The second point made by Sims is a lesson in wisdom: “I don’t accept criticism from those I wouldn’t ask for advice.” Demonstrating elegance and style, she revealed her look for the following day – vintage Dolce & Gabbana, a Colt Gaia skort, a Bottega Veneta bag, Diff sunglasses, and Stephanie Gottlieb earrings – proving that her clothing choices are always meticulously thought out, with class and sophistication.

The piece that sparked controversy was a green Masters set from Ancora, consisting of a crop top and matching pants, with her abdomen on display, available at 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’ response was dry and exemplary: “@att, do better.”

Interestingly, this controversy arises in the same week that another figure from the golf world, Paige Spiranac, also drew media attention for a green and white dress with a deep neckline, receiving, however, a much more positive online reception. Two women, one stage, completely opposite reactions – with the focus shifting away from athletic performance to what they wear.

This episode recalls an old discussion in the world of golf: the constant and often unfair attention given to the image of women associated with the sport. From Michelle Wie, whose talent was frequently 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 dictates the rules of what is acceptable within the “ropes” of Augusta National? While Brooks Koepka fights to capture the major title that eludes him – sitting three under par after 36 holes and on his way to his third Major – the real battle seems to take place away from the fairways, on social media and in the fashion backrooms.

Jena Sims did not hold back and showed that when one has experience and confidence, criticism is nothing more than noise. Augusta may be a temple of golf, but it is also a stage for a larger debate about freedom, style, and the voice of the women who are part of this universe. And this time, her message was clear: it is not the opinions of others that define who she is, both on and off the course.

This article first appeared in Apito Final.