Trump’s Enduring Golf Legacy: From Fairways to Foreign Policy

Donald Trump’s deep-rooted connection to golf extends far beyond leisure, serving as a critical nexus for business, networking, and even international diplomacy. Over the decades, the former president has leveraged the greens not just for competitive play, but as a strategic arena for striking deals and forging alliances.

Anecdotes from his first term reveal a fiercely competitive spirit on the course. Former White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney recounted playing with Trump around 40 times and never winning, describing the experience as “soul-crushing.” This intensity mirrors his approach to business, where golf properties are prized possessions, albeit not always profitable. While his Balmedie course in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, reported an $1.83 million deficit in 2023, his Turnberry course saw a $5 million profit.

Trump’s golf courses, including 11 in the US and three in the UK, are more than just resorts; they are venues for high-stakes interactions. From hosting professional tournaments to informal meetings, these clubs attract influential figures. British golf journalist Kevin Brown, who played with Trump in 2012, observed his intense focus on the game, often playing ahead of the group, yet clearly passionate about the sport’s history and pedigree.

The fairways have also served as unconventional diplomatic stages. During his presidency, Trump golfed with world leaders like then-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, building a personal rapport that transcended traditional diplomatic channels. More recently, in March of this year, a golf game with Finnish President Alexander Stubb in West Palm Beach reportedly included discussions on the war in Ukraine and global security, highlighting the unique access a tee time with Trump can offer.

This transactional aspect of Trump’s golf encounters was evident even when foreign leaders attempted to curry favor. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, for instance, presented Trump with a golf book and included golf professionals in his delegation during a May visit, though the meeting ultimately proved contentious. Trump’s enduring relationship with golf underscores its multifaceted role in his public and private life, continuing to be a significant platform for his ventures and relationships.

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