The presidential debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump encompassed a wide array of topics, but it was their exchange over golf that elicited some of the most animated remarks.
During the debate, Trump, who would reach the age of 82 at the conclusion of a potential second term, proclaimed his physical fitness and recent golf triumphs, underscoring that achieving championships necessitated both intellect and the capability to strike the ball a considerable distance. He also took a swipe at Biden, insinuating that the president lacked the ability to hit a golf ball 50 yards.
Biden countered by highlighting his own golf skills, noting that he had been able to lower his handicap to six during his tenure as vice president. He even issued a challenge to Trump for a golf match, with the stipulation that Trump carry his own set of clubs.
The conversation then turned to the credibility of their handicap assertions, with both men questioning each other’s golfing proficiencies. Trump dismissed Biden’s assertion as a “major falsehood” and expressed doubt about his swing, while Biden stood by his stated handicap.
Amidst the banter about golf, Trump tried to pivot the discussion away from the topic, admonishing both men to refrain from behaving like children. Biden responded by retorting that Trump was the one exhibiting childish behaviour in the situation.
It is not surprising that inquiries about the physical and mental fitness of the candidates have arisen during the campaign. Both men are aware that their capabilities are under scrutiny, and as a result, they are eager to defend their competencies, even if it means taking digs at each other’s golf abilities.
For those unfamiliar with golf, a handicap serves as a gauge of a player’s proficiency, with a lower handicap indicating a superior player. In this instance, Trump’s handicap was last reported as 2.5 in June 2021, while Biden’s stood at 6.7 in July 2018.
It is evident that, regardless of the gravity of the debate, Biden and Trump are not averse to playfully teasing each other’s skills in a good-natured manner. While their debate addressed urgent national concerns, the banter about golf served as a reminder that even presidential candidates are not above engaging in a bit of sports-related boasting.