Harry Kane sat down with Rick Shiels Golf Show a few weeks ago and it was a really interesting insight into England’s number one goal scoring hero. We have picked out the best bits and the video itself is at the bottom of the article. Big thanks to Reflo for making it happen.
Off the pitch, England striker Harry Kane showcases impressive golf skills, holding a handicap of 3.7. For Kane, golf is more than just a pastime; it’s a refreshing escape from the relentless demands of professional football.
“I’m a decent golfer. I think I’m a 3.7 at the moment, but I’ve not been able to put any scorecards in while in Munich. I feel like the last couple of years I’ve not been as good, but I can hold my own,” Kane shared.
From Teenage Hobby to Serious Passion – Harry Kane & Golf
Kane’s golf journey began in earnest at age 14, and by 18, he was fully committed to improving. He fondly remembers a summer that transformed his game, bringing his handicap down from 18 to 10.
“I had six weeks off with no football tournaments and just played golf every day. That’s when I really caught the bug, and I’ve been working on it ever since.”
Though football remains his priority, Kane’s competitive nature keeps him striving for excellence on the green.
“I’ve been around a 4 handicap for a while, but it’s hard to get lower when you don’t have the time to practise. I’m playing maybe once a month or once every six weeks, and that can be frustrating. I’m someone who wants to improve at everything, so having a bad day on the course can be pretty demoralising.”
A Power Game Refined
Initially, Kane relied on power to drive his game. But over time, he’s learned the importance of consistency.
“My game used to be all power. I would just smash the ball really far, but then I started working with someone to get more consistent. I was hitting it far, but sometimes it was all over the place.”
A Dream Come True: Playing with Tiger Woods
One of Kane’s most memorable golf moments was an impromptu game with Tiger Woods. He describes the surreal experience of joining the legendary golfer for two rounds in the Bahamas.
“I was out in the Bahamas, and a golf pro I knew casually said, ‘Oh, by the way, I’m playing with Tiger this afternoon. Want to join?’ It was one of those moments where I just thought, ‘Yeah, of course!’ It’s surreal.”
More than just golf, the experience allowed Kane to connect with Woods personally.
“We teed it up, and I hit a decent drive into the fairway. Tiger was walking, coming back from his injury, and I was in a buggy. We didn’t speak much on the course at first, but later we got chatting about family and life. He asked me to play 18 holes with him the next day, and it was incredible. I didn’t play great, but Tiger shot six-under. I kind of knew before anyone else did that he was back to playing really well!”
Why Reflo? Kane’s Move Towards Sustainability
Kane’s love for golf has inspired a partnership with Reflo, a sustainable golf apparel brand. For him, Reflo represents more than a typical endorsement—it aligns with his values and concerns about the planet’s future.
“Reflo came about a couple of years ago. I was looking for a golf brand that I could align with because I love my golf, and I wanted something where I could have a bit of input. Reflo just fit really well with me as a person and what I stand for.”
The partnership also resonates with Kane’s increasing focus on sustainability, especially as a father of four.
“Everything they’re doing is for the good of the planet. With four kids, I’m always thinking ahead about what the world is going to look like in the future. I don’t know loads about sustainability, but I’m trying to understand more, and Reflo has been really good in helping me with that.”
The Competitive Edge: Why Footballers Love Golf
Kane explained why golf appeals to so many footballers. The game not only requires similar skills but also provides an outlet for their competitive nature.
“Footballers lend themselves to being really good golfers. The hand-eye coordination, the fitness, the strength. And there’s a competitive element too. You want to beat the other players, and it lends itself so nicely to golf.”
He added that even Bayern Munich teammate Thomas Müller shares his passion for the sport.
“Thomas Müller is obsessed with golf—probably more than me! He’s got great energy and would be a perfect addition to any golf group.”
The Rise of YouTube Golf and Footballer Fans
Kane recognises the impact of YouTube golf content in inspiring footballers to pick up the game. With time to spare in hotels, many players now turn to golf videos for entertainment.
“You get a lot of time away in hotels, and lads are always trying to find things to watch. YouTube Golf has exploded over the last few years, and I think it’s inspired a lot of players to take up the game. It’s a great way to switch off from the pressures of football and spend a few hours relaxing.”
Looking Ahead
While his primary focus is still football, golf remains a deep passion for Kane. Through his partnership with Reflo, Kane is also committed to thinking beyond the sport, using his platform to promote sustainability. Whether leading England or teeing off with the likes of Tiger Woods, Kane is making the most of every opportunity.
The full interview:
