Harry Kane calls golf round with Donald Trump a surreal experience

As England prepares for a World Cup quarterfinal against Norway, captain Harry Kane has provided an unexpected glimpse into his off-field connections. Speaking to the media on Friday, the striker confirmed reports that he had previously shared a round of golf with United States President Donald Trump.

The encounter, which Kane described as a pretty surreal experience, took place in Palm Beach, Florida, approximately 18 months ago. Kane’s public confirmation followed a series of remarks from the President, who had lauded the footballer’s talent and character in the wake of England's 3-2 victory over Mexico in the Round of 16. During a press conference, the President stated, I think Kane is a great player. I played golf with him and I like him a lot. He’s a good golfer too. He’s really great.

Related imagery

During a press conference held in Miami ahead of Saturday's match at Hard Rock Stadium, Kane recounted the origins of the meeting. He invited me to play when I was down in Palm Beach. When the President invites you somewhere, it was a pretty surreal experience just to meet him and obviously play golf with him, Kane said. The England forward also expressed admiration for the 80-year-old President's performance on the course, noting, His golf is pretty good, to be honest with you. I hope I can play golf as good as him when I’m his age, that’s for sure.

Kane, who has previously shown an interest in the regional golf scene—including an investment in Tiger Woods' TGL team, Jupiter Links GC, and a separate 27-hole outing with Woods—characterized the game with the President as a unique experience.

While the golf outing has sparked conversation, Kane’s focus remains directed toward the pitch. As he heads into the quarterfinal with six goals to his name, he faces a stern test against a Norwegian side led by Erling Haaland. Discussing his role, Kane pushed back against direct comparisons between the two strikers. I know we’re both seen as strikers, but two totally different positions, if I’m being honest, he stated. I like to touch the ball a little more, be involved in play a little bit more.

The England squad, which has based its tournament training at the Inter Miami facility, also received support from former captain Sir David Beckham. During a training session on Friday, Beckham met with the team to offer encouragement. Kane described the visit as a boost for the group, noting that he maintains regular contact with the England legend. He’s a big England fan. We all know how much it meant for him to represent England and be captain and play the way he did every time he wore the shirt, so he was there to support us, Kane said. Obviously, we were using his home, the home that he built, so we appreciate him doing that for us.

Context and Team Outlook

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has signaled that his side must now shift their approach as the stakes rise. Describing the transition from the grit required in earlier knockout rounds to the current stage, Tuchel emphasized the need for a change in temperament. We need to now connect to our identity, connect to what makes us strong, be on the front foot and be brave, Tuchel told reporters. It's quarterfinals and the brave will have the luck on their side.

The upcoming match in Miami presents specific physical challenges, including high humidity and the tactical necessity of neutralizing the Norwegian attack.

What to Watch Next

• Saturday, 11 July 2026: England faces Norway in the World Cup quarterfinal at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami.
• Tournament Path: The winner of the England-Norway fixture will advance to face either Argentina or Switzerland in the semifinals on July 15.