Amanda Balionis drops another hint after Rory McIlroy controversy

Amanda Balionis has taken to social media to send a message to her detractors after she was criticized for her comments on Rory McIlroy skipping media obligations at the PGA Championship

CBS Sports journalist Amanda Balionis subtly clapped back at her critics by sporting a baseball cap with the word “chill” emblazoned on it, following what some perceived as a veiled jab at Rory McIlroy on her social media platforms.

Attending the recent PGA Championship, Balionis became a talking point when she delved into the hot-button issue of the five-time major champion bypassing press engagements. McIlroy skipped media conversations for four straight days during the Quail Hollow event, and Balionis seemed to allude to this during a live interview with golfer Bryson DeChambeau.

Her conduct was praised, especially after navigating an uncomfortable exchange with Scottie Scheffler as he grappled with allergies during their on-air chat. However, McIlory’s media no-show became a significant storyline from the PGA Championship, and Balionis addressed it head-on.

Post-Championship, she expressed gratitude to players who did meet with the press, posting: “Appreciate these two for taking the time to talk after a gutting loss. Simply a reminder that no one is obliged to talk, it’s a choice. And to bring us in after coming so close to a career accomplishment is awesome for the viewer.”

Following what appeared to be backlash, Balionis shared a clip of renowned actress Kerry Washington, alongside the message: “I don’t really take criticism to heart from people I don’t admire and respect.”

In a brazen move against her critics, she captioned a recent post with a powerful message, stating: “Monday reminder for all my fellow recovering people pleasers. Needed this one today.”