Michael Jordan has been an idol for numerous individuals, even beyond the limits of the NBA community. And DJ Khaled defending MJ against Stephen A. Smith is the most recent example of this. But interestingly, it was not the basketball legacy of the 6x NBA champ Khaled had to defend but Mike’s skills at Golf. Appearing on ESPN’s First Take, Smith asked Khaled who is the best athlete he has witnessed on the Golf course.
The answer obviously had to be players from outside the field of golf, so Khaled named JR Smith and Michael Jordan among his first two names. Meanwhile, Smith, in an objectionable tone to Khaled’s answer, questioned if “His (MJ’s) game is on that level?” However, Khaled could not take this question as he replied, “Don’t do that. Don’t break my heart. Michael Jordan is just the definition of unbelievable, incredible, and the definition of greatness. Of course, his golf game is A1.”
The 48-year-old also gave shout-outs to Stephen Curry and Reggie Bush. He also invited all these names to a charitable golf tournament scheduled on June 13. Notably, Khaled’s ‘We The Best Foundation’ is organizing a charitable celebrity golf tournament in collaboration with the ‘Jordan Brand Golf Classic’.
“Last year was so massive right here in Miami beach, and we want to do it again June 13… And I can’t wait to see you (Michael Jordan) there and the whole world there. It’s gonna be beautiful, and it’s for the kids, the young world, and the uplift, the community,” Khaled said on First Take while thanking the 6x NBA champ for his support. It is worth mentioning that the ex-Chicago Bulls star has had an age-old love for Golf. He has also played in multiple celebrity tournaments over the years.
What do the pros think of Michael Jordan as a Golfer?
His Airness is known for his competitive spirit and the urge to grow. This makes it obvious that Mike will not settle for being mediocre, even if he is trying his hands at a different sport. And the opinions of multiple pro-golfers on Jordan are enough proof that he is better than just being good.
“What always surprises me is his touch, which for quite a big guy is quite impressive… He has great hands. Inside of 6 feet, I’d take him against pretty much anyone,” Rory McIlroy said in a PGA Tour write-up. Apart from this, a senior writer for the Sports Illustrated Golf Group had also praised Michael Jordan stating, “He gets 10 strokes against TOUR pros, and they have learned the hard way that without a fast start, it’s nearly impossible to win.”
From Phil Mickelson to Jordan Spieth, there are several other professional golfers who have held high regard for the Bulls legend’s golf skills. The next on-course appearance for Mike in a tournament will most likely be on June 13. Now, it is to be seen where the other celebrity golfers stand against the 6x NBA champ.