Donald Trump Sparks Controversy by Demanding Golfer Join LIV Golf and Approve His Marriage Proposal
In a move that has left many scratching their heads and others outraged, former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly issued an audacious demand to British professional golfer Charley Hull, urging her to defect from the LPGA to the controversial LIV Golf tour — and even going as far as proposing marriage. The combination of Trump’s political profile, the controversy surrounding LIV Golf, and the shocking nature of a personal marriage proposal has triggered a wave of reactions across the sporting and political spectrum.
The Unlikely Target: Charley Hull
Charley Hull, one of the most prominent young golfers in the LPGA, is known for her impressive performances and down-to-earth persona. The 27-year-old British star has been a rising force in women’s golf for years, with numerous top finishes in majors, including a victory at the 2016 CME Group Tour Championship. Hull’s talents have earned her respect not only for her skills but for her commitment to the traditional golfing circuit — unlike some of her male counterparts who have jumped ship to LIV Golf, the Saudi-backed professional league.
Hull, who has been focused on her golf career and her personal life, was understandably stunned when reports emerged of Trump’s proposal. According to inside sources, Trump has long been an admirer of Hull’s athletic abilities, as well as her independence and resilience. But few expected the real estate mogul and former president to escalate his interest to the point of a marriage proposal.
Trump’s Proposal to Hull: A “Two-Fold” Demand
Reports of Trump’s demands first surfaced in a series of leaked communications between his representatives and Hull’s management team. Trump allegedly approached Hull with a two-pronged offer: first, he demanded that she join LIV Golf, the men’s league backed by Saudi Arabian investors, which has been attempting to build a women’s division. Trump, who has long supported LIV Golf and even hosted tournaments at his golf courses, reportedly believes that Hull’s presence in LIV would legitimize its expansion into women’s golf.
However, what has made the situation more bizarre — and deeply controversial — is the second part of Trump’s demand. Trump reportedly asked Hull to consider a marriage proposal, implying that she would benefit from aligning herself with his high-profile, powerful brand, and offering her a “life of luxury.” According to sources close to Trump, the former president is “infatuated” with Hull and sees their union as a “win-win” for both their public profiles.
The proposal has not only shocked Hull but also sparked outrage among her fanbase and feminist critics, who view Trump’s actions as patronizing and objectifying. Hull, who is married to Ozzie Smith, a mixed martial artist and boxing coach, has thus far remained silent publicly, though sources say she is deeply disturbed by Trump’s approach.
LIV Golf: A Controversial Venture
LIV Golf, which has been embroiled in controversy since its inception, has lured several male golfers away from the traditional PGA Tour with promises of massive financial incentives, including multi-million dollar contracts and guaranteed payouts. Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, LIV Golf has faced accusations of “sportswashing,” or using sports to whitewash the kingdom’s human rights abuses, including its treatment of women and dissidents.
Trump’s backing of LIV Golf has raised eyebrows due to its links with Saudi Arabia, especially given his previously cozy relationships with Saudi officials. Trump has been hosting LIV tournaments at his courses, further fueling speculation that his motivations for supporting the league are financially driven.
The thought of LIV Golf expanding to include women, however, has added another layer of complexity to the controversy. Women’s rights organizations have condemned LIV Golf, noting Saudi Arabia’s historical mistreatment of women and the hypocrisy of a women’s golf league being tied to a nation that severely restricts women’s freedoms. Trump’s push for Hull to join LIV Golf has been seen as an attempt to boost the league’s reputation at the expense of female athletes’ rights and reputations.
The Backlash: “A Gross Power Play”
The backlash to Trump’s latest actions has been swift. Critics from both the sporting world and the political arena have condemned his actions as “inappropriate” and “a gross abuse of power.” Social media has been flooded with reactions from users who see Trump’s proposal to Hull as not only unprofessional but deeply misogynistic. The hashtag #LeaveCharleyAlone quickly trended on Twitter, with thousands of users expressing solidarity with Hull and decrying Trump’s attempts to use his influence to pressure a woman into a relationship.
Renowned sports journalist Christine Brennan was particularly vocal about the incident, stating, “What we are witnessing is a disturbing example of how powerful men think they can manipulate and control women, both professionally and personally. Charley Hull is one of the most talented and respected players in the LPGA, and she deserves to make her own decisions about her career and personal life — free from the interference of someone like Trump.”
LIV Golf has also come under fire for its role in this controversy. Critics argue that the league has been more interested in pursuing high-profile players and public relations stunts than in genuinely supporting the game of golf, especially for women.
The Trump Factor: A History of Controversy
Donald Trump’s latest controversy with Charley Hull is only the most recent in a long list of public disputes involving the former president. His history of objectifying and belittling women — from derogatory comments caught on tape during his 2016 campaign to allegations of sexual harassment and assault — has made his actions toward Hull particularly incendiary.
In response to the uproar, Trump has not issued an official statement but has reportedly dismissed the backlash as “fake news” and “overblown,” maintaining that his interest in Hull was based purely on admiration of her golfing abilities.
What Happens Next?
As of now, Hull has not commented directly on Trump’s marriage proposal or the pressure to join LIV Golf, but many expect her to stay loyal to the LPGA, where she has built a successful career. Her silence on the issue has allowed speculation to fester, but insiders suggest she is “fiercely protective” of her career and unlikely to succumb to outside pressures.
The saga has undoubtedly left a sour taste in the mouths of many, especially those within the golf community, who see this as yet another example of how women in sports are often subjected to unwanted attention and pressure from powerful men. Whether or not this incident will have lasting consequences for Hull’s career, Trump’s reputation, or the future of LIV Golf remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the combination of sports, politics, and personal scandal has once again put Trump at the center of a storm.
Leave a Reply