Phil Mickelson has jumped in on the golfing argument between Donald Trump and Joe Biden, following the two presidential candidates exchanging digs at the sporting capabilities of one another.
Bryson DeChambeau, another star of LIV Golf, has expressed his interest in organising a match between the two contenders, in what would be one of the most exttaordinary sporting showdowns in living memory.
Thursday’s debate between the two political figures was highlighted not for policy discussions but their prowess on golf greens. Both used the occasion to flex their golfing talent in a sidestep from the customary exchange of views on policies.
Famed golfer Trump shared anecdotes of his victories on the green, while simultaneously dismissing the abilities of Biden.
“He doesn’t do it. He can’t hit a ball 50 yards. He challenged me to a golf match, he can’t hit a ball 50 yards,” Trump boldly claimed. In defence, Biden retorted: “I got my handicap, which when I was vice president, down to a six.”
Offering a cheeky challenge, Biden added, “And by the way, I told you before, I’m happy to play golf if you carry your own bag. Think you can do it? ” Doubting the validity of Biden’s claims, Trump quickly shot back: “That’s the biggest lie that he’s a six handicap of all.”
Biden then somewhat backtracked his previous statements, saying, “I was an eight handicap. Yeah. Eight.”
This public disagreement over golfing ability has sparked a significant discussion online. Even the former PGA Tour star, Mickelson, felt compelled to weigh in on this familiar argument.
“After watching the debate last night,” he tweeted. “I feel it never got personal until they started talking golf handicaps and who hits the longest drives. As a golfer, I get it,” adding a pair of laughing emojis to end off his comment.
Following the Trump-Biden spat, newly crowned US Open champion DeChambeau proposed a unique solution – a golf match to be hosted on his YouTube channel. He posted on X: “Let’s settle this whole handicap debate, I’ll host the golf match on my YouTube @realDonaldTrump @JoeBiden.”
DeChambeau himself has ties with former President Trump, having been hosted by Trump’s son Eric at the Westchester Golf Club following his US Open victory earlier this month. A video surfaced online showing Trump Jr holding the trophy alongside DeChambeau, who was seen drinking red wine from the silverware.
Away from the celebrations, the former US resident had words of praise for DeChambeau. He posted on Truth Social: “Congratulations to Bryson DeChambeau on his incredible WIN of the United States Open! He showed a toughness and inner strength, matched perfectly with his GREAT Golfing Talent, that can never be denied!
“Under massive pressure, he pulled off some of the greatest shots ever made, especially his spectacular sand save on the 18th Hole that gave him the Victory.”
DeChambeau has previously acknowledged his ‘fortunate’ relationship with Trump, having played alongside him at LIV Bedminster’s Pro-Am event in 2022.
