CBS Reporter Defends Questioning Style After Social Media Backlash

Amanda Balionis found herself defending her interview approach this weekend after facing criticism for her post-round conversation with Rickie Fowler at the Charles Schwab Challenge.

The CBS reporter spoke with Fowler following his impressive 3-under third round on Saturday, which left him four shots off the lead at Colonial Country Club. During their discussion, Balionis referenced Fowler’s putting statistics – currently ranking 125th on tour – and asked how it felt to be competing for a title again after being “stuck in neutral” for an extended period.

The questions sparked backlash from some viewers who felt her line of questioning was too negative, with critics taking to social media to voice their displeasure.

Standing Her Ground

Rather than ignore the criticism, Balionis took to Instagram to address her detractors directly. She shared screenshots of messages calling her a “highly unprofessional journalist” and suggesting CBS should consider replacing her.

In response, Balionis offered a thoughtful perspective on the impossible task of trying to please everyone in her profession.

“When we talk about being you instead of trying to be what you think others perceive as ‘perfect’ or ‘good enough’… here is an example of how the latter is simply an impossible and draining task,” she wrote in her Instagram story.

She continued: “It’s a lot easier to be yourself and figure out what feedback is actually worth listening to (spoiler: it’s never the trolls you don’t know) rather than trying to be what everyone else wants. Nobody wants the same thing and you’ll end up turning yourself into an unrecognizable pretzel.”

Context Matters

The criticism comes as Fowler has indeed struggled with his putting and overall form in recent years. Currently ranked 127th in the world after being in the top 25 as recently as early 2024, Fowler’s challenges on the greens have been well-documented throughout the season.

Balionis’ questions, while direct, addressed the statistical realities of Fowler’s current game and his position in what appeared to be a breakthrough weekend performance.

This isn’t the first time Balionis has faced scrutiny this season. Earlier this month at the PGA Championship, she made headlines for comments that some interpreted as pointed toward players who chose not to speak with media during the tournament.

For Balionis, the experience serves as another reminder of the tightrope walk sports journalists face when balancing tough questions with viewer expectations in an era of social media criticism.