Donald Trump's influence in sports has reached new heights, with the US president now acting as an arbiter in high-level golf disputes following his dubious intervention at the World Cup. The latest incident involves Bryson DeChambeau, who reportedly threatened to call Trump during a heated row over a two-shot penalty at the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale.
DeChambeau's Penalty and Trump Threat
DeChambeau was penalized for improving the area for his backswing after apparently treading down long grass near his ball on the fifth hole during the second round. He publicly lost his temper, demanded to be driven back to the scene with officials, and then reportedly threatened to call Trump. The incident has sparked questions about the politicization of sport.
Trump's History of Sports Intervention
Trump previously made three phone calls to FIFA President Gianni Infantino about a red card and suspension for US striker Folarin Balogun during the World Cup. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin boycotted the World Cup final over Infantino allowing this intervention. The trend suggests a new era of presidential involvement in sports disputes.
