Trump’s Golf Antics Earn Him the Nickname “Pele”—And It’s Not a Compliment

Donald Trump, famous for giving nicknames like “Sleepy Joe” and “Crooked Hillary,” now has one of his own—“Pele.” But this title, linked to the Brazilian soccer icon, isn’t about athletic skill.

According to Rick Reilly’s book Commander in Cheat, Trump frequently bends the rules on the golf course. From taking mulligans to kicking his ball for better lies, Reilly claims Trump often manipulates the game to declare victory. One quote from Trump reportedly reads:

“I cheat, and I expect you to cheat too because we’re going to win.”

His behavior at New York’s Winged Foot Golf Club allegedly earned him the nickname “Pele” due to his habit of using his feet—not his clubs—to gain an edge.

Though Trump’s team denies these allegations, other club members have backed similar stories. Critics see it as unsportsmanlike, while supporters chalk it up to harmless competitiveness.

In a sport where honesty defines the game, this “Pele” moniker may say more than Trump realizes.