Former U.S. President With Team USA at Cypress Point
© Allan Henry-Imagn Images

Former President George W. Bush was back where his family’s legacy runs deep — walking the fairways of Cypress Point Club as Team USA prepared for the 50th Walker Cup.

This wasn’t just a casual drop-in. The Walker Cup is personal for Bush — and not just because he’s a fan of golf. It’s in his blood. The biennial competition is named after his maternal great-grandfather, George Herbert Walker, who served as USGA president and donated the iconic trophy back in 1921. Since then, the Walker Cup has symbolized the elite battle between the top amateur golfers of the United States and Great Britain & Ireland.

George W. Bush Regularly Attends

Bush has made a habit of showing up when the Cup is held on American soil — attending in 2013, 2017, and 2021. On Friday, he was back again, this time at the legendary Cypress Point. And he wasn’t just a spectator. The former President walked the closing holes alongside Team USA during their morning practice round, even stepping in to roll a few putts himself.

“It’s his literal namesake,” said veteran Walker Cup player Stewart Hagestad. “It’s the Walker Cup at Cypress Point; it’s an opportunity to represent your country, to spend time with one of the great leaders of our country… it’s a dream come true.”

Bush being there was both ceremonial and symbolic. The Walker Cup is one of the purest expressions of national pride in amateur sports. With a former President walking the course, everyone knew the weight of the moment. For these young players, it was a reminder that this tournament is a tradition and a legacy.

With Team USA gearing up to defend home turf, Bush’s appearance added a little extra star power — and a dose of presidential history — to one of golf’s most cherished events.

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Austin Rickles