Presidents on the Green: A Look at Golf in the White House

Golf and the presidency have gone hand in hand for more than a century. From casual weekend rounds to high-profile tee times with world leaders, the sport has offered U.S. presidents a break from the pressures of office while reinforcing diplomacy, relaxation, and in some cases, serious skill.

Here’s a look at how golf has woven its way into the legacy of the American presidency—no politics, just pure golf.

A Longstanding Tradition

The relationship between U.S. presidents and golf dates back to the early 20th century. While not all presidents have been golfers, many have embraced the sport as a favorite pastime, using it for exercise, camaraderie, and occasionally even diplomacy.

The First Presidential Golfer: William Howard Taft

William Howard Taft, the 27th president, is widely regarded as the first U.S. president to regularly play golf. He took up the game in the early 1900s, just as it was gaining popularity in North America. Though he wasn’t known for athleticism, Taft’s time on the course helped set a precedent that future presidents would follow.

Woodrow Wilson: Snow or Shine

Woodrow Wilson was one of the most frequent golfers in presidential history. Despite having limited natural talent for the game, he reportedly played over 1,000 rounds while in office. He even had the Secret Service paint golf balls black so he could play during the winter months.

Dwight D. Eisenhower: The Presidential Golfer-in-Chief

Eisenhower arguably did more than any other president to popularize golf among the American public. A member of Augusta National and a passionate player, Ike reportedly played over 800 rounds during his two terms. In fact, Augusta named a tree—the famous "Eisenhower Tree"—after him.

He also had a putting green installed on the White House lawn, a tradition that several presidents have continued.

John F. Kennedy: The Natural Athlete

Though JFK was rarely photographed on the course, he was an excellent golfer with a reported handicap in the low single digits. A natural athlete, Kennedy kept his love for golf mostly private, but those who played with him noted his skill and smooth swing.

Gerald Ford: Power Over Precision

President Ford loved golf and often played in pro-am tournaments after leaving office. Known for his powerful drives, he also had a reputation for being a bit erratic with accuracy—once joking that his playing partners were brave just for standing nearby. Nonetheless, Ford brought enthusiasm and fun to every round.

George H.W. Bush: Speed Golf Champion

A grandson of George H. Walker (namesake of the Walker Cup), George H.W. Bush came from a family deeply rooted in golf. Known for his fast pace of play, he famously disliked slow rounds, often finishing 18 holes in under two hours. Bush was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011 under the Lifetime Achievement category.

Bill Clinton: Social Golfer with a Signature Style

President Clinton played frequently during and after his time in office. Known for playing casual, social rounds with celebrities and world leaders, he also popularized the “Billigans” — extra shots often taken during a round (some would call them mulligans). His charisma and competitive nature made him a lively presence on the course.

George W. Bush: A More Private Golfer

While President George W. Bush played golf earlier in life, he played less frequently while in office. Like his father, he appreciated the game but often focused on fitness activities like running and biking during his presidency. Post-office, he returned to the game more regularly.

Barack Obama: Weekend Warrior

President Obama embraced golf as his go-to form of relaxation. He frequently played at military and private courses and often spent weekend mornings on the course with close aides, athletes, and celebrities. He was known for a smooth swing and a solid mid-teen handicap.

Donald Trump: High-Profile Golf Businessman

Before and during his presidency, Donald Trump was well known in the golf world—not just as a player, but as an owner and developer of golf courses. He frequently played rounds at his own clubs and hosted various professional tournaments at Trump-branded properties.

Joe Biden: Occasional Golfer

President Biden has played golf occasionally during his presidency, though not as regularly as some predecessors. He’s been spotted on various courses, including Wilmington Country Club near his Delaware home. His golf appearances are often low-key and infrequent, keeping the focus more on the casual, recreational side of the sport.

More Than a Game

For many presidents, golf has been more than just a hobby—it’s served as a way to build relationships, clear their minds, and stay physically active amid the stress of the Oval Office. From historic clubs like Augusta National and Burning Tree to military courses and municipal layouts, presidential golf spans the full range of the sport’s culture.

Regardless of politics or party, the image of a president on the golf course remains a uniquely American tradition—where the rules are the same, the scorecard is honest (most of the time), and the next tee shot is always full of promise.