Els and Goosen Attend White House Meeting with Ramaphosa and Trump

Ernie Els and Retief Goosen met with President Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to address claims about the treatment of farmers in South Africa. Trump has faced backlash for his assertions about systemic targeting of white farmers. Both golfers emphasized progress and improving their homeland’s situation amid ongoing challenges. The meeting coincided with their participation in the Senior PGA Championship.

In an unexpected meeting at the White House on May 21, 2025, renowned South African golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen joined President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss issues plaguing South Africa with President Donald Trump. The context of this meeting arises from Trump’s controversial claims regarding the treatment of white farmers in South Africa, which have been challenged by experts who argue there is no systemic targeting of whites based on race.

The gathering included South African billionaire Johann Rupert, alongside the golfing legends Els and Goosen, both of whom boast impressive resumes with a combined six U.S. Open titles. Amidst Trump’s several allegations against South Africa’s government, including accusations of land seizures and other anti-white policies, the meeting focused on enhancing relations and addressing misconceptions.

President Trump has cut off U.S. assistance to South Africa and has even favored several white South African farmers seeking refuge in the U.S. His rhetoric about a supposed “genocide” against whites has faced considerable backlash. Violent incidents impact farmers of all ethnic backgrounds in South Africa; thus, claims of targeted attacks are widely disputed by analysts.

Els and Goosen, both elite figures in the sport, were invited by President Ramaphosa after he had a conversation with golfing icon Gary Player. Ramaphosa mentioned, “When I spoke to you, you said, ‘Yes, come along and bring Gary Player and Ernie Els and Retief Goosen.

During the meeting, Els articulated the need for improvements in South Africa. “We want to see things get better in our home country. That’s the bottom line. It’s been 35 years since the transition from apartheid,” he stated, reflecting on the difficult past while emphasizing a hopeful future.

Els further drew parallels to Nelson Mandela’s approach after his release from prison, pointing out Mandela’s commitment to unification through sport as a model for the current South African landscape. Goosen, who struggled through personal adversity, shared the ongoing challenges farmers face, both in their livelihoods and conflicts with land disputes.

Getting ready for the upcoming Senior PGA Championship at Congressional Country Club, Els said, “That’s why we really wanted to meet you and see our way forward. We still want to see our country flourish.”

Goosen expressed some of the ongoing difficulties faced by South African farmers, illustrating the need for support. “It is a concern to try to make a living as a farmer,” he noted, implying the necessity for understanding and action regarding the issues discussed.

The meeting at the White House, involving South African golfers and President Trump, highlighted complex racial and social issues in South Africa. Els and Goosen’s presence underscored their aim to address misunderstandings concerning farming conditions in their home country, providing a voice of hope for betterment while confronting longstanding challenges. The discussion reflects broader sentiments around historical injustices and the potential for reconciliation as South Africa continues to evolve post-apartheid.

Original Source: apnews.com