When Scottie Scheffler’s allergies interrupted their interview, Amanda Balionis kept her cool and turned the situation into a viral moment. See how she handled it with grace—and earned praise from fans everywhere!👇👇👇

Amanda Balionis Praised for Handling ‘Awkward’ Scottie Scheffler Interview With Professionalism and Grace

Amanda Balionis, the talented CBS Sports reporter, has long been admired for her sharp interviewing skills and professional demeanor. But recently, she garnered widespread praise for handling a particularly awkward moment during an interview with PGA Championship winner Scottie Scheffler. In a situation that could have easily gone off the rails, Balionis remained composed, earning the admiration of both fans and fellow sports journalists.

The incident occurred after Scheffler’s impressive outing on Day 3 of the 2025 PGA Championship, where he ultimately secured his third major title. The 28-year-old golf pro, however, was battling a common issue many deal with during the spring: allergies. During the interview, it became clear that Scheffler was suffering from the discomfort of coughing and sneezing. What could have easily become an embarrassing moment for both the player and the reporter was instead handled with grace, poise, and a touch of humor by Balionis.

The Awkward Moment: Sneezing, Coughing, and a Pro’s Response

The interview started as expected, with Balionis greeting Scheffler and discussing his outstanding play at the PGA Championship. But soon, the interview took an unexpected turn. Scheffler, struggling to contain his sneezing and coughing, began to apologize, and it was clear that his allergies were making it difficult for him to speak. While these kinds of disruptions could have created an uncomfortable atmosphere, Balionis immediately diffused the situation with her trademark professionalism and a quick sense of humor.

With a calm smile, Balionis said, “Bless you and cough,” before turning to the camera and offering a lighthearted comment. “Allergies are really bad here in Charlotte. That’s our first breaking news.” Her ability to make the moment feel natural and even humorous helped ease any tension that might have built up.

Fans and commentators alike immediately praised her for taking such a challenging situation and turning it into an engaging moment. Rather than letting the coughing and sneezing disrupt the flow of the interview, Balionis handled the awkwardness effortlessly, showcasing why she is regarded as one of the best in the business.

Fans Applaud Balionis’ Professionalism

Social media lit up with praise for Amanda Balionis, with fans commenting on her ability to keep the interview flowing despite the awkward circumstances. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “It appears to me the golfers respect Amanda. She consistently gets them to relax and be themselves. She is well-prepared too.” Others added, “She’s a professional” and “She is truly one of the best at what she does.”

Balionis’ calm and collected demeanor stood in stark contrast to the uncomfortable situation, further solidifying her reputation as a sports reporter who can handle any curveball thrown her way—literally and figuratively.

In addition to her skill as an interviewer, Balionis’ ability to make her subjects feel comfortable and at ease is one of the reasons why so many athletes open up to her during interviews. This moment with Scheffler only added to her growing list of accolades, proving that her ability to remain poised under pressure is one of her greatest strengths.

The DeChambeau Comment: A Sly Dig at Rory McIlroy?

While Balionis’ handling of the Scheffler interview was a standout moment, she made headlines for another interaction during the PGA Championship weekend. In a separate interview with Bryson DeChambeau, Balionis made a comment that some fans interpreted as a subtle jab at fellow golfer Rory McIlroy.

In the interview, Balionis thanked DeChambeau for taking the time to chat, saying, “I know you don’t have to take the time, but we appreciate it.” This remark immediately sparked speculation that Balionis was making a sly dig at McIlroy, who had noticeably avoided the media during the PGA Championship. McIlroy’s reluctance to engage with reporters during the tournament was highly unusual, given his usual openness in past events.

One fan on X commented, “It’s why Rory has dodged the media this week!” suggesting that Balionis was making an indirect reference to McIlroy’s media avoidance. Whether intentional or not, the remark fueled the ongoing narrative that McIlroy’s behavior at the PGA Championship was being noted by other golfers and media personalities.

The McIlroy-Balionis Connection: Past Rumors Resurfaced

The incident with DeChambeau also brought attention to the ongoing rumors regarding a past romantic connection between Balionis and McIlroy. Although both Balionis and McIlroy have never publicly confirmed or denied these rumors, the speculation has persisted for years.

At one point, after McIlroy’s separation from his wife, Erica Stoll, tabloids ran wild with speculation about a possible romance between the two. However, McIlroy and Stoll later reconciled, and the rumors about Balionis were effectively put to rest. The recent comment during the DeChambeau interview sparked further curiosity about their relationship, leading some to wonder if Balionis was subtly addressing McIlroy’s actions in the media.

Despite the persistent rumors, Balionis has continued to focus on her career and professional relationships with athletes. She maintains a level of discretion when it comes to her personal life, further fueling the mystery surrounding her interactions with McIlroy and others.

Balionis’ Reputation in the Sports World

Amanda Balionis has built a strong reputation as one of the leading reporters in the world of sports journalism. Known for her professionalism, quick wit, and genuine rapport with athletes, she has become a favorite among fans and players alike. Whether it’s interviewing top golfers like Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, or other sports figures, Balionis has proven time and again that she can navigate even the most awkward of moments with grace and ease.

Her ability to remain poised in challenging situations and engage with athletes on a personal level has made her a respected figure in the world of sports reporting. Fans appreciate her authenticity, and her ability to bring out the best in those she interviews is a testament to her skill as a journalist.

Conclusion: A Rising Star in Sports Journalism

Amanda Balionis continues to impress both viewers and colleagues with her professionalism and ability to handle any situation with ease. Whether it’s a coughing fit from a star athlete or navigating subtle media rivalries, Balionis’ calm, collected approach has made her one of the most respected figures in sports journalism today.

As her career continues to evolve, fans can expect to see more of Balionis in the spotlight, interviewing some of the biggest names in sports with the same poise and skill that has made her a fan favorite. From handling awkward moments with grace to making her interviewees feel comfortable, Balionis’ future in sports journalism is looking brighter than ever.