Gianfranco Zola was a surprise addition to the Team Europe set-up at the Ryder Cup but the Chelsea icon wasn’t too concerned with the US President’s arrival to cheer on Team USA

Kasra Moradi Senior Sports Journalist and Maria Ortega

10:16, 03 Oct 2025

FARMINGDALE, NY - SEPTEMBER 26: President of the United States Donald Trump greets spectators by the first hole tee box during the 2025 Ryder Cup on the Black Course at Bethpage State Park on Friday, September 26, 2025 in Farmingdale, New York. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/PGA of America via Getty Images)A football legend didn’t want to take a picture with Donald Trump at the Ryder Cup(Image: Scott Taetsch/PGA of America, Getty Images)

Gianfranco Zola has revealed his attention was diverted away from President Donald Trump at the Ryder Cup because he was mesmerised by Michael Jordan standing next to him.

The footballing legend, 59, found himself in an unlikely role for Team Europe at Bethpage Black last week. Zola, who shares a close friendship with Francesco Molinari, was recruited by the Italian golf star to serve as his designated buggy driver at the biennial competition in New York.

Dressed like the players, the former Chelsea, Parma and Napoli icon drove Team Europe vice-captain Molinari and other players around the course, spending plenty of time with them and their families.

It’s no surprise that a true footballing hero doesn’t get easily starstruck, as shown when he found himself in close proximity to President Trump, who caused a stir with his attendance on the Friday afternoon at Bethpage Black.

But there was one fellow nineties legend in attendance who left the Italian unable to hide his child-like enthusiasm.

Standing head and shoulders above the crowd and sporting his signature cap and black sunglasses on the opening day of the Ryder Cup was the Chicago Bulls icon, Jordan.

Speaking about encountering Trump, Zola told La Gazzetta dello Sport: “Sure, we were next to him on Friday afternoon, even though we didn’t speak.

Gianfranco Zola, former footballer and Team Europe buggy driver, looks on during the Friday morning foursomes matches of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Black Course at Bethpage State Park Golf Course on September 26, 2025 in Farmingdale, New York.Gianfranco Zola was a buggy driver for Team Europe at the Ryder Cup(Image: Getty Images)

“But I almost looked more at Michael Jordan, a legend. I would have loved to take a picture, even if I wouldn’t have looked great next to him; the height difference would have been embarrassing.”

Unfortunately for Trump, Zola ranking MJ above him wasn’t the only blow to his pride. The 47th US president also faced light-hearted ribbing by Team Europe in his own backyard after they secured victory on American soil for the first time since 2012.

During their celebrations, the European players assembled to send Trump a video message. With Rory McIlroy operating the camera in selfie mode, they chanted: “Are you watching? Are you watching? Are you watching Donald Trump?”

Michael Jordan looks on during the Saturday morning foursomes matches of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Black Course at Bethpage State Park Golf Course on September 27, 2025 in Farmingdale, New York.Zola wanted to take a picture with Michael Jordan (Image: Getty Images)

Trump, an avid golfer and fan, took the jibe in good humour and responded with a congratulatory video of his own afterwards.

Zola commented on the situation: “Funny, the right way to poke a little fun. McIlroy had received a congratulatory message from the president and decided to send him videos.

“And Trump even responded publicly, repeating his congratulations. It’s the right climate: teasing, but within the bounds of good taste and a joke.”

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