Banned for Betting Scandal, 26-Year-Old Pro Receives Fans’s Unwavering Support Following Emotional Apology: ‘We Are All With You’

The toughest times can get easier with the right support from the right people. For a golfer, fans are the major support system and they have played their part in supporting Marco Penge during the tough phase of his professional career. On December 13th, 2024, Penge was found guilty of involvement in false practices against the integrity of the game.

The DP World Tour suspended him for three months with a $2000 fine on December 13th, 2025. The committee found him guilty of betting on golf matches. Continuing further, according to Sky Sports, the committee stated, “The disciplinary panel ruled that Penge’s breaches merited a three-month suspension with one month suspended for a period of 12 months pending further breaches of the programme.”

Penge breached DPWT’s Regulation 3(a)(i) that states “no covered person shall either directly or indirectly bet or instruct any other person to bet on the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of any professional or elite amateur golf event anywhere in the world.”

He can rejoin the Tour from February 13, 2025. He will next play at the Magical Kenya Open from February 20-23. While expressing his concern about the suspension, he shared an apology on social media and accepted his fault. As per the post, the golfer shared, “I had placed some bets on golf from 2022 with an overall stake of £24 and total profit of £250. 68% of the bets I placed were before I took the integrity programme education course in March 2023.”

Apart from accepting his mistake, he even apologized for it in the post. He shared, “I genuinely thought it was ok to bet on golf as long as it wasn’t on myself or the tournament I was competing in.” Continuing further the apology, it stated, “This was all a genuine and honest mistake that I have taken full responsibility for and I will never ever make the same mistake again.”

Following on, his honesty and apology for his fault made fans understand his current situation. For which, full support was shared with the player in the comments section. Fans’ support on social media to help the golfer in tough situations showed a great example of unity amongst the golf community.

Fans supporting Marco Penge during the suspension period

​​One fan commented, “Fair play to you Marco for being honest and upfront. Seems a harsh ban to me but take it on the chin then push on next Feb.Onwards and upwards for next season Marco,Happy Christmas to your and your family👍🏌️‍♂️🏌️‍♂️.” Praising him for the honesty and acceptance that he has shown for the mistake. The comment on the post shows that many fans respect their favorite golfer even during odd circumstances.

Others also joined in to support by commenting, “Honesty is the best policy, and you are owning your mistake. It’s time to move on and show what you are all about on the golf course this new season ✊.” and “Well said Marco, really honest and positive response, you will learn from mistakes which will make you stronger and more resilient.”

Some showed support with the comments as they wrote, “Marco, we are all with you. Being honest about the situation & genuine mistake. You will come out this a stronger person, with a hell of a lot of support.”

Some joined to wish him good luck for the upcoming season and a great festive season ahead. One user commented, “Top Boy Marco. Have a great season ⛳️👊💪.” Another wrote, “Wishing you and the Family a Wonderful Festive break and a very successful 2025.” His best finish of the year was at the Alfred Dunhill Championship which was 4th. His 17th finish was 17th at the Volvo China Open. His another good finish of the year was 22nd at the Genesis Championship.

Though the tough time shall pass, the support from the fans will provide strength to the golfer. Even his great acceptance and resilience will be a great lesson for many. He will have to stay away from the course until the suspension ends. What are your thoughts on the apology of Marco Penge? Share with us in the comments section below.