S12, Ep17: Rick Reilly on Trump, Norman, and Caddying at Augusta

In this very special bonus episode of Next on the Tee, acclaimed author and golf journalist Rick Reilly returns to the show. Rick and I cover a wide range of topics that span everything from Trump's "club championships wins" to The Masters. We kick things off with Rick’s take on President Trump’s self-declared victories at his various club championships, including winning the Triple Crown at his home course. I ask Rick: how many of these wins are actually real and Rick doubles down on his doubts about by saying he'd play Trump for $100,000 on a neutral course with USGA rules officials watching both players. Rick shares his thoughts on the potential PGA Tour–LIV Golf merger, including a reported high-profile meeting at the White House, and whether any real progress was made. We then dig into Rick’s past relationship with Greg Norman, how Norman’s difficult relationship with his father may have influenced his drive to create LIV, and whether that ambition came more from Norman's disdain for the PGA Tour or a personal need for validation from his father. Rick also breaks down why Jack Nicklaus is the undisputed GOAT. As we gear up for The Masters, Rick shares stories from his time caddying at Augusta National for 1973 champion Tommy Aaron, including the physical demands of the course and the behind-the-scenes grind of being a caddy. We close with a lighthearted debate over his Washington Post article about spreading ashes on golf courses—specifically Augusta—and whether it’s okay to become part of the fairway after your final round. This episode is filled with insight, laughs, and some truly unique perspectives from one of golf’s most entertaining storytellers.