Donald Trump speaks out after erecting 22-foot gold statue of himself at golf course
US President Donald Trump has responded after a 22-foot gold statue of him was unveiled at Trump National Doral Miami.
Trump is well known for his love of golf and is often seen playing during time away from the White House.
The President also owns several courses around the world – including in Aberdeen, Scotland, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates – with reports suggesting he owned around 16–17 courses at the start of 2026.
All of the course names begin with ‘Trump’, typically followed by their location, such as Trump National Doral Miami – where the president unveiled a large statue of himself on Wednesday (May 6).
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The 22-foot gold sculpture was revealed during a dedication ceremony attended by Pastor Mark Burns, who described it as a “celebration of life”.
“Today at Trump National Doral Miami, we witnessed an unforgettable moment,” he wrote on social media.
“Let me be clear: this is not a golden calf.
“This statue is a celebration of life. It is a symbol of resilience, freedom, patriotism, strength, and the willpower to keep fighting for the future of America.”
Midway through the service, the pastor called the President, who quickly answered and thanked Burns, describing him as a “good man”.
Trump said: “I’ve known him a long time, he’s been with me from the beginning — right from the beginning, maybe about two days later.
“I want to thank everybody there,” he added. “I know it was done from love.”
Burns also explained that the statue was a reminder that God was protecting the President’s life.
The sculpture, which is 15 feet tall and sits on top of a seven-foot base, was funded by crypto investors trying to raise the profile of $PATRIOT, as reported by The Daily Beast.
But what does Trump think of the golden statue?
Based on his social media activity, he appears to approve, having posted a photograph of the sculpture to Truth Social with the caption: “The Real Deal – GOLD – At Doral in Miami. Put there by great American Patriots!!!”
Previously, sculptor Alan Cottrill said the crypto investors were slow to make payment after he agreed to create the statue for $300,000.
He then kept it in a warehouse until he received payment.
Topics: Donald Trump, Golf
Luke Davies