​England captain Harry Kane has described his golf game with United States President Donald Trump as a “pretty surreal experience.” The round, which Trump had previously disclosed, occurred about a year and a half ago in Florida. In comments made to reporters earlier in the week, Trump praised Kane’s golf abilities, saying he’s a strong player and a good golfer who is “really great.” Kane, looking back on the outing, admitted he felt a twinge of envy at Trump’s golfing prowess, especially given Trump’s age of 80.
Kane recalled, “I played alright, to be honest, but 18 months ago he invited me to play when I was down in Palm Beach.” The England captain, 32, added that when the President extends an invitation, it becomes a pretty surreal moment simply to meet him and, of course, to play golf with him. “His golf is pretty good, to be honest with you. I hope I can play golf as well as him when I’m his age, that’s for sure. It was a unique experience, but I was just grateful that he invited me to play.”
Trump had also publicly complimented Kane on Truth Social after England’s 3-2 victory over Mexico in the last 16, writing: “Harry Kane of England is a GREAT player!!!” This comes as Kane stated that England aim to make Sir David Beckham proud ahead of their World Cup quarter-final with Norway. Beckham visited Thomas Tuchel’s team as they prepared for the crunch clash with Erling Haaland and his Manchester City teammates, training at Inter Miami’s facilities in Fort Lauderdale, where Beckham is a co-owner of the MLS club.
Beckham, who earned 115 caps for England, attended the session with his sons Romeo and Cruz and spoke to players in the gym before they hit the pitch. Kane noted that Beckham wished the squad luck ahead of the match, saying the former captain’s message mattered to the team. Kane added that Beckham remains a major England supporter, and that the former captain’s presence and guidance were appreciated as the squad prepared for another crucial World Cup stage.
“I spoke with Beckham after most games; we stay in touch,” Kane said. “He’s an England legend, and it meant a lot to have him around. He’s someone who understands what it means to wear the shirt and perform at the highest level.” Kane’s comments reflected the ongoing sense of national pride and the influence Beckham continues to hold within the England camp, as they chase a potential first World Cup semi-final in six decades.