Golf legend Ernie Els, a former world No.1 and four-time Major winner, has offered a rare, detailed assessment of Donald Trump’s golf ability, including a first-hand account of witnessing the former president hit a hole-in-one in 2022. The ‘Big Easy’ provided insights into Trump’s game, contrasting his current form with his younger days and shedding light on a moment that generated considerable buzz.
Witnessing a rare feat
The memorable hole-in-one occurred on the seventh hole at Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach. Els, known for his calm demeanor on the course, described the moment as one of genuine surprise and excitement, particularly given the high-profile playing partner.
“We throw our clubs in the air. You know, ‘it’s unbelievable.’ You play with the ex-president, and he makes a hole-in-one. How many times does that happen? That’s the thing that goes through your mind,” Els recounted, as reported by Yahoo Sports. He further emphasized his clear view of the shot, stating, “I saw it clearly.”
According to Els, Trump, who was 75 at the time, drove directly to the green after the shot, retrieved the ball from the hole himself, and reacted in a “low-key” manner, despite the rarity of the achievement. Els also noted Trump’s habit of not watching his shots fully, often “walking through it” after his swing.
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A candid assessment of Trump’s game
Beyond the single spectacular shot, Els provided a professional evaluation of Trump’s overall golf game. Despite Trump’s advanced age, Els was impressed by his ability to strike the ball.
“He hits the ball better than I’ve seen any… I mean, he’s 75. But he can really strike the ball. He makes good contact. He’s got a good swing,” Els observed, according to GIVEMESPORT.
Els estimated Trump’s handicap has shifted significantly over the years:
- In his prime: Around a 4 or 5 handicap
- Today: Around a 10 to 12 handicap
While praising Trump’s ball-striking, Els also pointed out areas for improvement, particularly around the greens. “Like any amateur, you got to do the short game practice. I keep talking to him about his chipping. He’s a pretty good putter,” Els added.
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The former president has often been the subject of skepticism regarding his various golf claims, including assertions of over 40 tournament wins and beating fields of scratch golfers. However, Els’s testimony, from a highly respected figure in the sport, offers a credible, first-hand account of one of golf’s most elusive feats.
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