Former U.S. President Donald Trump is currently in Scotland as preparations are underway for the grand opening of a new Trump-branded golf course in Balmedie, Aberdeenshire. Scheduled to open on August 13, the course will be the second Trump property in the region, joining the existing Trump International Scotland in Aberdeen.
Upon arriving in Scotland on Friday evening, Trump told reporters that his son Eric Trump would officiate the ribbon-cutting ceremony. However, the spotlight on the Trump Organization’s business expansion was quickly overshadowed by fresh controversy.
A viral video circulating on social media appears to show a staff member at a Trump-owned course near Turnberry placing a golf ball near a sand trap—after which Trump takes a putt. The footage has reignited long-standing accusations that the former president cheats at golf, a claim made multiple times over the years.
This isn't the first time Trump’s golfing ethics have come into question. Sportswriter Rick Reilly even penned a book titled “Commander in Cheat: How Golf Explains Trump,” which documents numerous alleged instances of dishonest play on the course.
Social media users were quick to pounce on the video, many unsurprised by what they saw.
“Of course he did,” one user commented.
“Super on brand,” another quipped.
“Never not cheating—in golf, on wives, in business, on taxes, in elections,” one scathing post read.
“That’s not even cheating for him anymore… that’s just everyday life,” added another.
One user sarcastically noted: “Another FLAWLESS game, Mr. President,” while others joked that Trump would likely blame the incident on former President Barack Obama. “He’ll just say Obama did it—and they’ll believe it,” read one comment.
Several also questioned the role of the staff member seen moving the ball, wondering aloud how much they were paid to assist in the alleged deception.
While in Scotland, Trump is also expected to hold discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on trade and tariffs. He will remain in the country until Tuesday, July 29.
The White House has dismissed suggestions of a conflict of interest, stating that Trump’s past business success is integral to his political brand. Spokesperson Taylor Rogers called the visit a “working trip,” adding:
“President Trump has built some of the best and most beautiful world-class golf courses anywhere in the world, which is why they continue to be used for prestigious tournaments and by elite players.”
Despite the official line, the golf course controversy has again drawn attention to Trump’s unique ability to blend personal business, politics, and spectacle—often in the most unpredictable of ways.