England captain Harry Kane confirmed Friday that he played a round of golf with President Trump about 18 months ago in Florida, after the president extended a personal invitation. The revelation came during a press conference in Miami, where Kane was previewing England's World Cup quarterfinal match against Norway.
“He invited me to play when I was down in Palm Beach. When the president invites you somewhere, it was a pretty surreal experience just to meet him and to play golf with him,” Kane said. The 32-year-old striker also praised Trump’s golf game, adding, “His golf is pretty good to be honest with you. I hope I can play as well as him when I’m his age, that’s for sure.”
Trump, who has a well-documented passion for golf, mentioned the outing earlier this week, calling Kane a “great player” and a “good golfer.” The two are believed to have played at Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, though neither specified the exact course.
The meeting underscores Trump’s ongoing engagement with the world of sports, particularly during the first World Cup hosted jointly by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Earlier this week, Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to lobby for a reversal of a red card issued to U.S. men’s national team star Folarin Balogun. The suspension was later reduced to a suspended sentence, with Infantino insisting the president’s outreach had no influence. The U.S. was eventually eliminated 4-1 by Belgium in the Round of 16.
Kane, who has scored six goals so far in the tournament, is aiming to lead England to its first World Cup semifinal since 1966. The match against Norway on Saturday afternoon carries high stakes, and the diplomatic banter between the British and Norwegian embassies in Washington, D.C., added a light-hearted note to the buildup.
The president’s golf outing with Kane also highlights his broader political strategy of leveraging personal relationships with high-profile figures. As House Republicans bet on Trump to drive midterm turnout, such encounters can bolster his image as a leader who mingles with global stars.
Trump’s handling of the World Cup controversy, including his call to Infantino, has drawn scrutiny. Critics argue it reflects a pattern of overreach, while supporters see it as a sign of his commitment to American athletes. Meanwhile, concerns about election integrity continue to roil domestic politics, though Trump’s sports diplomacy appears aimed at a different audience.
Kane’s confirmation of the golf game adds a personal dimension to the intersection of sports and politics. As England prepares for its crucial match, the striker’s unexpected connection to Trump is likely to generate headlines on both sides of the Atlantic.
