Trump's golfing escapades highlight his competitive spirit and the strategic networking opportunities the sport provides.
Teeing Off: Trump's Complex Relationship with Golf as Business and Sport
Teeing Off: Trump's Complex Relationship with Golf as Business and Sport
Inside the golf course where Trump closes deals and fosters connections.
In an unusual intersection of sport and politics, former President Donald Trump has leveraged golf not just as a pastime, but also as a vital avenue for networking and business deals. This weekend, as he kicks off a new golf course in Scotland, many reflect on Trump's unique approach to the game, which often combines competition and camaraderie.
Trump's former White House Chief of Staff, Mick Mulvaney, vividly recalls a round of golf with Trump in 2019 at his Bedminster club. With just three holes remaining, Mulvaney led by a stroke, only to witness Trump rally to win the match. "It's soul-crushing," Mulvaney shared, noting that throughout their many rounds together, he never bested the former president.
While past presidents like Barack Obama utilized golf as a respite from the pressures of leadership, for Trump, it’s about connection and business—a platform where he thrives under competition. “Slow play?” Mulvaney quipped. “You’re off the course.” Trump’s unrelenting focus often sees him move ahead of his companions, intent on maximizing every moment of his time on the green.
British journalist Kevin Brown reminisced about his experience playing golf alongside Trump on the Balmedie course. He noticed Trump's singular drive and passion for golf during their round, and while the interest in scenic views dulled for Trump, the strategic power plays remained sharp.
Trump’s ventures into the golf business date back to 1999, with his first acquisition of the Trump International Golf Club in Florida. Currently, he owns 11 courses in the U.S. and three in the U.K., with expansion on the horizon. Despite some financial struggles—like the reported $1.83 million loss from the Balmedie course this year—Trump continues to attract wealth and influence through golf, eyeing the possibility for high-profile tournaments.
The elitism inherent in golf has not eluded Trump, who has famously utilized the sport to cultivate relationships with politicians and business magnates alike. A golden golf club from Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe symbolized their bond, leading to rounds filled with discussions that extended beyond sport. Since his presidency, Trump has continued to wield golf as a tool for diplomacy, often playing alongside foreign leaders.
As golf outings provide a more discreet environment than formal events, influential figures find these tee times irresistible opportunities to engage with Trump, cultivating close connections away from public scrutiny. Yet, amid the business dealings, some insiders, including commentator David Cay Johnston, have raised eyebrows about Trump’s claims of tournament victories and competition integrity on the course.
Despite varying perceptions of his golfing prowess, Mulvaney insists that for Trump, golf transcends mere sport. "This is golf," he insisted, emphasizing that Trump's love for the game has long preceded his political endeavors and will continue post-presidency. With every round, Trump remains a force—both on the fairways and beyond.
Trump's former White House Chief of Staff, Mick Mulvaney, vividly recalls a round of golf with Trump in 2019 at his Bedminster club. With just three holes remaining, Mulvaney led by a stroke, only to witness Trump rally to win the match. "It's soul-crushing," Mulvaney shared, noting that throughout their many rounds together, he never bested the former president.
While past presidents like Barack Obama utilized golf as a respite from the pressures of leadership, for Trump, it’s about connection and business—a platform where he thrives under competition. “Slow play?” Mulvaney quipped. “You’re off the course.” Trump’s unrelenting focus often sees him move ahead of his companions, intent on maximizing every moment of his time on the green.
British journalist Kevin Brown reminisced about his experience playing golf alongside Trump on the Balmedie course. He noticed Trump's singular drive and passion for golf during their round, and while the interest in scenic views dulled for Trump, the strategic power plays remained sharp.
Trump’s ventures into the golf business date back to 1999, with his first acquisition of the Trump International Golf Club in Florida. Currently, he owns 11 courses in the U.S. and three in the U.K., with expansion on the horizon. Despite some financial struggles—like the reported $1.83 million loss from the Balmedie course this year—Trump continues to attract wealth and influence through golf, eyeing the possibility for high-profile tournaments.
The elitism inherent in golf has not eluded Trump, who has famously utilized the sport to cultivate relationships with politicians and business magnates alike. A golden golf club from Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe symbolized their bond, leading to rounds filled with discussions that extended beyond sport. Since his presidency, Trump has continued to wield golf as a tool for diplomacy, often playing alongside foreign leaders.
As golf outings provide a more discreet environment than formal events, influential figures find these tee times irresistible opportunities to engage with Trump, cultivating close connections away from public scrutiny. Yet, amid the business dealings, some insiders, including commentator David Cay Johnston, have raised eyebrows about Trump’s claims of tournament victories and competition integrity on the course.
Despite varying perceptions of his golfing prowess, Mulvaney insists that for Trump, golf transcends mere sport. "This is golf," he insisted, emphasizing that Trump's love for the game has long preceded his political endeavors and will continue post-presidency. With every round, Trump remains a force—both on the fairways and beyond.
