Donald Trump’s Golf Game Has Earned Him a Nickname — And It’s Not a Compliment
Donald Trump has long been known for handing out nicknames to his political rivals. From “Crooked Hillary” to “Sleepy Joe” and “Birdbrain” Nikki Haley, Trump’s labels have stirred controversy and headlines alike. But while he’s dished out dozens, it turns out he’s also picked up a few nicknames himself—including one that draws a surprising comparison to a soccer legend.
The Golf Course Controversy
Trump’s love for golf is no secret. Even during his presidency, he reportedly hit the links more than 40 times, drawing criticism for prioritizing leisure during national crises. Yet what’s raised more eyebrows than the frequency is how he reportedly plays the game.
Author and sportswriter Rick Reilly, in his book Commander in Cheat, alleges that Trump routinely bends the rules on the course. Reilly, who once played with Trump, claimed:
“He took seven mulligans, gave himself a chip-in, and declared victory—when no one even saw him play.”
Reilly didn’t stop there. Speaking to MSNBC, he added:
“He has to win, and he will do anything to cheat.”
A Pattern of Questionable Victories?
According to Reilly and others, Trump has repeatedly declared himself winner of club championships, even in tournaments he didn’t physically attend.
“He told me, ‘Anytime I buy a new course, I play the first round by myself and declare myself the club champion,’”
Reilly said.
Trump reportedly claimed to have won a tournament during his historic trip to North Korea, despite there being no evidence of his participation. Critics say the pattern reveals a man obsessed with winning—at any cost.
Trump’s Response and Defenders
Trump’s campaign has dismissed these claims. In 2024, campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung fired back:
“Rick fantasizes about having a golf game as good as President Trump… He should seek urgent medical care before it’s too late.”
Still, the accusations continue to mount, with others sharing similar experiences. Former casino executive Jack O’Donnell, whose father helped found the Sawgrass golf course, recalled a conversation with a colleague after playing a round with Trump. He asked whether Trump had moved his ball on the course. The response?
“Every shot but the tee shot.”
Meet “Pele”
Perhaps the most unusual detail to emerge from this saga is the nickname Trump reportedly earned at Winged Foot Golf Club. According to caddies and fellow members, Trump was often seen kicking his ball into more favorable positions.
The nickname? “Pele”—a nod to the legendary Brazilian soccer star, and Trump’s own claimed favorite player.
“He cheats like a three-card Monte dealer,”
Reilly wrote.
“He throws, boots, and moves the ball. And he lies about his lies.”
Another Winged Foot member, Bryan Marsal, confirmed the pattern. Recalling a round with Trump, he said:
“He looked at the other players and said, ‘You see those guys? They cheat. I cheat. And I expect you to cheat too, because we’re going to beat them today.’”
Marsal added:
“I think Donald, in his heart, believes everyone cheats. So to him, it’s not really cheating—it’s just leveling the playing field.”
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s political opponents or putting greens, Donald Trump seems to play by his own rules—a trait that has earned him both loyal supporters and vocal critics. But when it comes to golf, where sportsmanship is sacred, being nicknamed after a soccer player for kicking the ball may not be the kind of legacy any player wants.
What do you think—harmless fun or a habit that speaks volumes? Let us know in the comments and share your thoughts on Facebook.
