Hmm, that is interesting. I am SPG Platinum "Ambassador" level (Platinum is 50 nights and you become Ambassador level starting at 100+). Early January, I reached out to Marriott, where I was just a "Member" and requested a status match, which they said they would not do. Instead, they offered me a Platinum challenge. I just met that challenge last week.

The best guess I have is that due to the merger with Starwood, they have been inundated with similar requests. Marriott may have only a certain number of challenges they offer in a given quarter or year. I recall reading that Hilton was no longer offering status matches to Starwood elite members in January. I called Hilton in December with a screenshot of my 2015 activity and was given Diamond for 2016 in less than 48 hours. As a lifetime SPG Platinum, I am preparing myself for the eventuality of SPG being merged into Marriott Rewards. I get to start experiencing Platinum level treatment next week. Have been underwhelmed by Hilton's Diamond treatment to date.

My .02 cents...