Footage from Turnberry reignites long-standing scrutiny over Trump’s golf habits
A new video of President Donald Trump playing a round of golf at his Turnberry course in Scotland has gone viral, renewing scrutiny over his approach to the game. The brief clip has prompted fresh accusations of rule-bending, while some supporters argue the criticism is exaggerated.
The video shows Trump, 79, riding in a golf cart behind two caddies. As he approaches a bunker, one caddie appears to discreetly drop a ball in the light rough. It was an action that sparked a wave of online reactions, with many interpreting it as evidence of cheating.
Although the footage ends before Trump takes a swing, some commentators on social media were quick to judge. “Undeniable proof that Trump cheats at golf,” one X user wrote. Others quipped, “Who needs a foot wedge when you have a personal ball dropper?”
Still, not everyone was convinced.
“Anyone who’s played 18 holes with friends knows. Sometimes a dropped ball isn’t cheating, it’s mercy,” one user joked in response.
A Familiar Conversation About Trump’s Game
The clip has reignited ongoing discussion about Trump’s on-course conduct, a topic that’s followed him for years. In Commander in Cheat, a 2019 book by sportswriter Rick Reilly, From kicking balls to taking credit for others’ shots, Trump was accused of regularly bending the rules. The book even claimed some caddies jokingly called him “Pele.”
Trump has long portrayed himself as a competitive and fast-paced golfer, often leaning into showmanship. He plays frequently and rarely adheres to conventional expectations, according to those familiar with his habits.
Stories about his golfing style have circulated widely, including from celebrities. Samuel L. Jackson and Anthony Anderson have both publicly shared anecdotes. On Late Night with Seth Meyers, Anderson remarked: “Trump’s a great golfer… but I’m not saying he cheats. His caddy cheats for him.”
Supporters Offer Alternate Explanation
While critics condemned the apparent ball drop, others offered a different interpretation. Some argued it may have been a standard “drop” under golf rules. It’s a common occurrence when a ball is unplayable or lost in thick grass.
“Please learn golf before you post. It’s called a drop. Common in golf. He’s actually a very good golfer. He doesn’t need to cheat,” one supporter commented, as reported by News.com.au. Similar defenses surfaced on Yahoo, The Scottish Sun, and Reddit.
Others noted the lack of context in the short clip, pointing out that it ends before Trump plays the shot.
“The video doesn’t even show him taking the shot. It’s not proof of anything,” one Reddit user commented.
Reports from The Daily Beast and Times of India echoed that sentiment, with some commenters calling the reaction overblown and suggesting that casual golf often involves lenient drops.
A Familiar Spotlight
Whether viewed as questionable gamesmanship or routine casual play, the moment has once again put Trump’s golf habits, and public perception, in the spotlight. As with much of his public life, opinions remain divided.
One thing is certain: Donald Trump’s time on the course continues to draw attention, with even a brief clip capable of sparking headlines and online debate.
