WATCH: Birdie Bliss! Minister's Golf Debut Laughs
Minister McKenzie may be new to the greens, but he's already swinging for laughs.
In a charming and laughter-filled debut, South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, made waves at his very first golf tournament.
From missing swings to making birdies, the minister's first golf tournament is a comedy-filled debut.
'I have the bag, not the skill!'
I just bought a whole golf set 4 my first ever golf tournament. I feel like the kid who had a ball and the best soccer boots growing up but zero skill. We were forced to pass the ball to him because he would take the ball, they better make sure I win cos I will stop the game pic.twitter.com/7iyxDp2Wmu — Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) May 16, 2025
Minister McKenzie might be new to the greens, but he's already swinging for laughs.
In a hilarious and self-deprecating social media post, the minister declared:
'I just bought a whole golf set for my first-ever golf tournament. I feel like the kid who had a ball and the best soccer boots growing up, but zero skill. We were forced to pass the ball to him because he would take the ball… they better make sure I win, cos I will stop the game!'
Yes, folks, the minister came armed with a brand-new Titleist golf bag (retailing at a cool R7,699.99) and zero golfing experience.
But what he lacked in finesse, he made up for in flair and fun.
Speed traps in the sky – Minister cracks up golf crowd
I respect the law 😂😂😂😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/cNvwxh9p4W — Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) May 16, 2025
Joking that he didn't want to hit the ball too far 'because the traffic cops were in attendance and there's speed traps in the air,' the minister had fellow players, and the internet howling with laughter.
And he wasn't done. After a few less-than-perfect shots, he quipped:
'My first shot ever… worse to good. By the time I'm fine here, Walmer Golf Club will need new grass!'
Talk about turf trouble.
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Twitter tees off
My first shot ever, worse to good 🔥🔥🔥🔥by the time I am fine here, Walmer Golf club will need new grass 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/WKNBmN992S — Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) May 16, 2025
Golf enthusiasts didn't hold back in the replies, offering advice, banter, and a good old golf clap.
One seasoned aficionado advised:
'Best investment! Go for a few lessons. You'll appreciate and enjoy the challenge even more. I remember how I struggled with the 3 wood… Follow @GOLF_com for great tips.'
Another user took a cheeky swing:
'2nd frame, I thought you were going for an eagle. Kanti, you got yourself a chick.'
Even as an amateur, the minister proved he could take the banter as well as he takes a bogey.
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Birdie brilliance: From zero to hero
But not all hope was lost.
I got my first birdie at my first attempt at playing golf 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/9IROPUTXWr — Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) May 18, 2025
With a little pro guidance on the course, the minister's game began to shape up. By the end of the tournament, he managed to score his first birdie, and the celebration was pure gold.
Captured on video, his joy was undeniable as fellow players congratulated him.
'This feeling is always golden,' tweeted @ThisIsMduh in response to the moment.
From posing with a pricey golf bag to grinning like a kid on Christmas morning, the minister may not be teeing off for the PGA Tour anytime soon, but one thing's for sure:
South Africa's favourite golf rookie is officially hooked.
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