Ian Poulter is quite the internet aficionado these days. With over two million followers on Twitter and 458k on Instagram, he’s got a sizable online presence, and he even dabbles in Tik Tok from time to time. Poulter is no slouch in the social media department.

But with that elevated platform comes an enhanced microscope. Trolls lurk around every corner on the internet, and critics are just as abundant. Poulter got a taste of both in a recent video he posted to his social channels. A simple trick shot had the haters coming out of the woodwork.

The video seemed harmless enough. A lighthearted way to connect with some of his fans. But soon enough, questions arose over the legitimacy of the video. Was the footage doctored? Did Poulter really make the shot?

What was your best achievement during lockdown? pic.twitter.com/1R7ekPEfDT

— Ian Poulter (@IanJamesPoulter) July 22, 2020

Nick Faldo was among the most vocal doubters. And upon several more viewings, Sir Nick might be right. The ball does look as though it came up short of its target. Faldo wasn’t alone in his assessment.









“Defo short,” said one commenter “100% with you on this Sir Nick!!”

“No way that went in,” said another.

Poulter was quick in his defense, however, blaming the illusion on a faulty camera in his aged phone.

It’s an entirely plausible explanation, but some still didn’t buy it. You can be the judge.

Article originally appeared on: Golf.com