Donald Trump is famous for giving political opponents mocking nicknames like “Crooked Hillary” and “Sleepy Joe,” but on the golf course, he has one of his own: “Pele.” Unlike the legendary soccer player, Trump reportedly earned this nickname because of his habit of kicking golf balls into better positions—a claim made by caddies and fellow players who say he regularly cheats to win.
Sportswriter Rick Reilly, in his book Commander in Cheat, describes Trump taking mulligans, moving balls, and even claiming victories at courses he’s never played. Trump himself once admitted he plays alone on new courses and declares himself the club champion. According to those who’ve played with him, this pattern of bending the rules is routine and part of his personality.
At elite clubs like Winged Foot, stories of Trump’s behavior spread. Some insiders suggest he believes everyone cheats, so it’s fair game. Even when caught, Trump’s team dismisses accusations as jealousy or “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” Yet respected golfers and insiders consistently tell similar stories of dishonesty and manipulation.
To some, it’s harmless competitiveness. To others, it’s a sign of how Trump approaches everything—from golf to business to politics—with his own rules. The nickname “Pele” might be a joke, but it reflects a deeper truth: for Trump, winning often comes before fairness, even in a game meant to be played with honor.
