Donald Trump has transformed his love for golf into a powerful networking tool. After playing over 40 rounds with his former chief of staff, Mick Mulvaney, Trump has established a reputation as a fiercely competitive golfer. While past presidents like Obama used golf as a stress relief, for Trump, it's about closing deals and forming connections.
He recently opened a new golf course in Scotland, adding to his already impressive portfolio of 11 courses in the U.S. and three in the U.K. Despite some courses losing money, golf remains a status symbol for Trump, providing access to influential cabals of businessmen and world leaders.
His golfing connections span several political figures, including constant games with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, who sought discussions about global issues on the greens. With reports of him claiming various golf championships and allegations of cheating, Trump's golfing days are characterized by both leisure and strategic alliances.
For many, securing a tee time with Trump means gaining a pathway to influence and power, demonstrating how much the sport has intertwined with politics and business for the former president.
