New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman has once again highlighted a bizarre moment involving former President Donald Trump, recounting an unusual story Trump shared in the Oval Office during the 2020 election. According to Haberman, Trump boasted about having seen legendary golfer Arnold Palmer disrobed, going so far as to comment on the size of Palmer’s genitalia.
The incident is mentioned in Haberman’s book Confidence Man, specifically in the introduction of the UK paperback and Kindle editions. As part of her larger examination of Trump’s behavior and obsession with appearances, Haberman includes this strange detail as further evidence of the former president’s “prurience” and fascination with physical looks.
Haberman writes:
“There were countless stories attesting to Trump’s prurience, indulging in gossip and obsessing over others’ looks. In one of the most memorable, as he prepared for a trip to Latrobe, Pennsylvania, for a rally in late 2020, Trump recounted for Oval Office guests the time he had seen hometown golf legend Arnold Palmer disrobed at the Latrobe Country Club, and the size of his genitalia.”
This odd moment resurfaced over the weekend when Trump retold the anecdote during a rally in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Speaking to his MAGA supporters, Trump commented:
“Arnold Palmer was all man. And I say that with all due respect to women. And I love women. But this guy, this guy was all man. This man was strong and tough… And I refuse to say it. But when he took showers with the other pros, they came out of there saying, ‘Oh my God! That’s unbelievable.’”
Trump’s retelling of the story left many in the crowd and online scratching their heads. Even CNN reporter Steve Contorno found himself in an awkward position, trying to relay the unusual remarks to viewers during a live broadcast.
As is often the case, Haberman was well ahead of the news, having already shared the story in her book. The anecdote serves as yet another example of the former president’s unconventional behavior and his tendency to share personal and often bizarre details during public and private conversations.
