Golf has long been a favorite pastime of U.S. presidents, offering a blend of competition, relaxation, and diplomacy. From shaping policy discussions on the fairways to perfecting their swings in private club settings, many American presidents have embraced the game. In this article, we’ll explore the most notable presidents who played golf, their favorite courses, and how the sport influenced their leadership.
Why Do Presidents Love Golf?
Golf provides a unique balance of leisure and strategy, making it an ideal sport for politicians. It allows for networking in a relaxed setting, encourages physical activity, and offers a mental escape from the pressures of the Oval Office. Many presidents have used golf as a way to build relationships with world leaders, corporate executives, and political allies.
Notable U.S. Presidents Who Played Golf
1. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953–1961)
Eisenhower was one of the most avid golfers to ever occupy the White House. He reportedly played over 800 rounds during his presidency and had a putting green installed on the White House lawn. He was a regular at Augusta National Golf Club, where he was an honorary member. His love for the game even influenced golf’s popularity in the U.S. during the 1950s.
2. John F. Kennedy (1961–1963)
Despite chronic back pain, Kennedy had one of the best golf swings of any president. While he didn’t play as frequently as Eisenhower, he was a skilled golfer who often played discreetly. Kennedy’s smooth, athletic swing is still admired by golf historians today.
3. Gerald Ford (1974–1977)
A former football star at the University of Michigan, Ford enjoyed golf but became famous for his wild shots. He played frequently in pro-am tournaments and was known for occasionally hitting spectators with errant shots, including once striking a spectator at a Ryder Cup event.
4. Ronald Reagan (1981–1989)
Reagan didn’t take up golf until later in life, but he enjoyed rounds at some of the world’s most prestigious courses, including Pebble Beach. In 1983, he famously played at Augusta National when a gunman took hostages at the White House—forcing him to cut his round short.
5. George H.W. Bush (1989–1993)
A fast-paced player, Bush Sr. was known for speed golf, often finishing rounds in record time. A member of exclusive clubs like Winged Foot and Augusta National, he was instrumental in promoting the game. He was later inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame for his contributions to the sport.
6. Bill Clinton (1993–2001)
Clinton was a passionate golfer who often played charity rounds and enjoyed courses like Pebble Beach and the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island. Known for his “mulligan-friendly” approach, Clinton was said to take extra shots to improve his score during friendly rounds.
7. George W. Bush (2001–2009)
Following in his father’s footsteps, Bush was also a golfer but gave up the sport during his presidency after 9/11, believing it was inappropriate to play while the country was at war. He later returned to golf and played in charity events.
8. Barack Obama (2009–2017)
Obama played frequently, logging over 300 rounds during his presidency. He preferred courses in Hawaii, Martha’s Vineyard, and Andrews Air Force Base. His smooth left-handed swing was often analyzed by golf enthusiasts.
9. Donald Trump (2017–2021)
A lifelong golfer and owner of multiple golf resorts worldwide, Trump played more rounds than most modern presidents. He often used his courses, including Trump National Doral and Trump Bedminster, for meetings with business and political leaders.
10. Joe Biden (2021–Present)
Biden is not as avid a golfer as some of his predecessors, but he has been seen playing at courses like Wilmington Country Club in Delaware. He reportedly enjoys the game but plays sparingly compared to more golf-obsessed presidents.
Presidents and Their Favorite Golf Courses
Many presidents have had memberships at some of the most exclusive golf clubs, including:
- Augusta National Golf Club (Eisenhower, Reagan, Bush Sr.)
- Winged Foot Golf Club (Bush Sr.)
- Pebble Beach Golf Links (Reagan, Clinton)
- Trump National Golf Club (Trump)
- Kapalua Golf Club (Obama)
Conclusion of Presidents Who Played Golf
Golf has played a significant role in the lives of U.S. presidents, serving as a means of relaxation, diplomacy, and competition. Whether using the game for leisure, networking, or stress relief, these presidents have left their mark on golf history. Their passion for the sport has also contributed to its popularity, with golf remaining a favorite pastime among political leaders worldwide.
