Golf, known for its mental rigor and demand for emotional control, has become a metaphor for grace under pressure. Leaders within the sport—executives, professional players, and high-profile club figures—are expected to model these very traits. But behind the image of refined discipline and effortless composure often lies a fragile balance. When alcohol and ego enter the equation, the veneer of control begins to crack, exposing the deep weaknesses that can undermine golf’s most prominent leaders.

The Illusion of Control

In golf, as in leadership, control is currency. Leaders are admired for their ability to maintain poise under pressure, to make decisions that influence careers and shape reputations. But the same ego that fuels ambition can also mask vulnerability. The fear of appearing weak or fallible drives many to suppress emotions and project invincibility.

Alcohol often becomes the tool used to sustain this illusion. It offers temporary relief, a socially acceptable escape from the constant weight of expectation. Among golf’s leaders, where appearances are everything, alcohol is both a symbol of status and a private anesthetic. Happy hours, donor dinners, and exclusive club events create an environment where overindulgence is not only tolerated but often celebrated.

The Erosion of Leadership

When alcohol use shifts from casual to compulsive, the impact on leadership can be devastating. Decision-making becomes erratic, professional relationships begin to fray, and the clarity required for strategic thinking is compromised. Ego, inflated by years of unchecked authority, often prevents leaders from acknowledging the problem. Instead of seeking help, they double down on denial, convinced their power insulates them from consequence.

Over time, however, the consequences become undeniable. Missed opportunities, public embarrassments, and even legal issues begin to accumulate. The trust that others once placed in these figures erodes, replaced by skepticism and concern. For a sport that prides itself on honor and etiquette, such downfalls are not just personal—they are institutional failures.

Cracks in the Ivory Tower

Golf’s upper echelons have seen their share of scandal involving alcohol and ego. From executives stepping down amid controversy to former champions confronting public battles with addiction, the pattern is clear. Yet for every high-profile fall, there are countless quieter struggles hidden behind closed clubhouse doors. These stories rarely make headlines, but their impact on the sport’s culture is significant.

The silence around these issues reflects a larger discomfort with vulnerability. In many elite golf circles, seeking help is still seen as a sign of weakness, especially for men in leadership roles. This mindset perpetuates a cycle of secrecy and self-destruction.

Toward a Culture of Authentic Leadership

Breaking this cycle requires a cultural shift. Golf’s institutions must begin to value authenticity and emotional health as much as performance and prestige. Leadership training should include emotional intelligence, stress management, and substance abuse awareness. Club policies should encourage responsible behavior, and visible support systems should be in place for those struggling.

In a game built on integrity, real strength lies not in ego or image, but in the courage to confront personal flaws. Golf’s leaders must redefine what it means to lead—not just with authority, but with humility, vulnerability, and a commitment to wellness.

Golf has long been considered a gentleman’s game, a sport of patience, precision, and poise. It is also, for many powerful men, a stage for social clout and business strategy. Yet, behind the manicured greens and hushed conversations lies a reality not often spoken aloud: addiction. Whether to alcohol, prescription drugs, or the pressure of perfection, addiction has found fertile ground in the world of golf, particularly among its most powerful figures.

The Intersection of Privilege and Pressure

Men in positions of power within the golf world—from high-ranking executives to elite amateur players and seasoned pros—are often under immense pressure to perform, lead, and maintain appearances. With privilege comes expectation. The clubhouse becomes both a sanctuary and a stage, where vulnerabilities are hidden behind brandy glasses and confident handshakes.

Addiction in these circles often begins subtly. A drink to unwind, a pill for pain, or a late-night bet that becomes a weekly ritual. What starts as a coping mechanism for stress or celebration can quickly evolve into dependency. And for those at the top, where scrutiny is constant and the stakes are high, asking for help can feel like admitting defeat.

A Culture That Enables

Golf’s culture can inadvertently foster addiction. Alcohol is woven into the social fabric of the sport—post-round drinks, charity events, and sponsor dinners are rife with opportunities to overindulge. Combine this with the isolating nature of leadership and the often solitary pursuit of golfing excellence, and it becomes easy for addiction to take hold unnoticed.

Moreover, powerful men often have the means to conceal their struggles. Private doctors, discreet therapists, and inner circles that protect reputations can all delay meaningful intervention. This insulation not only prolongs the problem but can also make recovery more difficult once reality sets in.

The Cost of Control

Addiction doesn’t discriminate based on status. In fact, power can make its grip tighter. Many influential figures in golf have seen their personal and professional lives unravel due to unchecked dependencies. Careers have been derailed, relationships destroyed, and reputations permanently damaged.

Some former players and executives have gone public with their battles, shedding light on the toll addiction has taken and the courage it takes to recover. These stories reveal the humanity behind the polished exteriors, and they underscore a need for more open dialogue within the sport.

Toward a Healthier Fairway

To truly address addiction in golf’s elite spaces, the culture must shift. Wellness should be championed alongside skill, and seeking support should be seen as a strength rather than a weakness. Clubs and organizations can take the lead by providing resources for mental health, encouraging transparency, and reevaluating the role of alcohol in their traditions.

Teeing off trouble means confronting the truth: even the most powerful men are not immune to the quiet pull of addiction. But with awareness, support, and a commitment to change, the game can become a place not just of achievement, but of healing and resilience.

Golf has always carried an air of refinement and exclusivity. It is the sport of the well-dressed and well-connected, where country clubs double as corporate boardrooms and weekend tee times are as much about networking as they are about birdies and bogeys. Yet within these elite circles, where power and prestige reign, a shadow lingers—alcoholism. It is a hidden but persistent weakness that has exposed vulnerabilities among golf’s most influential figures, challenging the image of control and composure they often portray.

The Allure of the Clubhouse Culture

At the heart of golf’s elite culture is the clubhouse, a place where drinks flow as freely as business cards. Celebratory cocktails, fundraising galas, and post-tournament dinners create an environment where alcohol is ever-present and often expected. Within this setting, powerful individuals—from wealthy amateurs to top-level executives and even professional athletes—can fall into patterns of excessive drinking masked as social routine.

For many, this starts innocently. A few drinks to celebrate a good round or to close a deal. But in a world where appearances matter and pressure runs high, alcohol can become more than just a social lubricant. It becomes a crutch, a quiet escape from the demands of success, and eventually, a dependency that is difficult to break.

Power, Pressure, and the Cracks That Show

Those in golf’s upper echelons are often under immense personal and professional pressure. They must maintain flawless reputations, lead with authority, and continually perform at high levels. These expectations can be suffocating, and when cracks begin to show, alcohol is a tempting and readily accepted escape.

Unlike more visible physical injuries, alcoholism hides in plain sight. It erodes mental clarity, emotional resilience, and leadership capabilities gradually. Decision-making suffers. Relationships, both personal and professional, become strained. The very strengths that elevated these individuals—focus, discipline, charisma—begin to deteriorate.

When Reputation Meets Reality

In golf’s elite circles, image is everything. The revelation of a drinking problem can bring reputational ruin. From public scandals to whispered gossip in private lounges, the social cost is high. Some high-profile figures have faced DUI charges, erratic public behavior, or embarrassing moments captured by the media, peeling back the polished veneer to reveal a human struggle.

Yet, many remain silent, fearing the stigma and potential fallout. This silence perpetuates the cycle, enabling others to fall into the same patterns without intervention or support. Golf, for all its tradition and structure, has been slow to address this issue openly.

Changing the Conversation

To address alcoholism in golf’s elite circles, the culture must evolve. Clubs and organizations should promote wellness over indulgence, offering mental health resources, confidential counseling, and encouraging open dialogue. Success in golf, whether on the green or in the boardroom, should be measured not only by achievements but by the ability to lead with authenticity and resilience.

Power does not make one immune to weakness—in fact, it often conceals it. The rough side of power in golf reveals that even the most esteemed figures are human. Only by facing these challenges directly can the sport foster a healthier, more supportive environment for all who love the game.

Professional golf, a sport that celebrates discipline, focus, and individual performance, is often admired for the poise of its athletes and the grace of its leaders. Yet, behind the serene landscapes and smooth swings lies an often unspoken truth: alcoholism has quietly plagued the game, leaving deep scars not only on players but on the leadership that shapes the sport. The influence of alcoholism within professional golf undermines the very qualities that the sport demands, revealing vulnerabilities that can no longer be ignored.

A Silent Struggle Among Leaders

Leadership in professional golf extends beyond organizing tournaments and managing players. It includes the coaches, mentors, board members, and executives who create the framework for the sport’s growth and integrity. These leaders are expected to uphold values of professionalism and control, setting an example for athletes and fans alike. However, the pressure to maintain a flawless image often conceals personal struggles, particularly with alcohol.

Alcoholism in leadership doesn’t always manifest in obvious ways. It may start with post-event celebrations or networking functions where alcohol is part of the culture. Over time, casual drinking can evolve into a dependency, particularly for individuals dealing with stress, burnout, or the isolation that leadership roles can bring. When those at the top suffer silently, their judgment, decision-making, and interpersonal relationships begin to deteriorate.

Consequences on the Course and Beyond

Alcoholism can significantly impact the professional environment of golf. Leaders battling addiction may become inconsistent, reactive, or disengaged. They might overlook crucial responsibilities, mismanage resources, or fail to support players effectively. This leads to a trickle-down effect that undermines team morale, disrupts event execution, and damages public trust in the sport’s administration.

In some cases, these issues have led to scandal. Arrests, inappropriate conduct, and abrupt resignations have drawn public attention to a problem long kept behind closed doors. Such incidents not only tarnish individual reputations but also cast doubt on the sport’s leadership as a whole. Golf’s image as a game of dignity and restraint is jeopardized when those in charge cannot manage their own habits.

Shifting the Narrative

Fortunately, change is possible. Recent years have seen a growing willingness to address mental health and addiction in sports. Former players and executives have begun to share their experiences, breaking the stigma and opening the door for institutional reform. Leadership programs in professional golf must now include education on substance abuse, promote work-life balance, and encourage transparency around personal well-being.

Golf organizations have a unique opportunity to set a new standard by creating environments where vulnerability is not punished, but supported. Peer mentorship, confidential counseling services, and stricter policies around alcohol use at official events can all contribute to healthier leadership practices.

Conclusion

Alcoholism in professional golf’s leadership is a swing and miss that the sport can no longer afford. It threatens the integrity of decision-makers and diminishes the trust of players and fans alike. By facing this issue head-on, professional golf can strengthen its foundation and ensure that its leaders truly embody the principles they promote on and off the course.

Golf has long been associated with power, prestige, and privilege. For many elite men, the sport serves as both a recreational escape and a strategic networking platform. However, beneath the surface of polished greens and refined clubhouses lies a world where vulnerability is often overlooked. The pressures of maintaining success, the expectations of leadership, and the temptations of excess contribute to the downfall of some of golf’s most powerful figures.

The Burden of Expectation

Powerful men in golf, whether professional players, corporate executives, or influential club members, operate under immense pressure. The game itself demands precision, patience, and mental fortitude—qualities that extend beyond the fairway and into their personal and professional lives. However, the pursuit of excellence often comes at a cost. The relentless drive to win, both in business and sport, can create an internal struggle where failure is not an option. This unrealistic expectation fosters anxiety, stress, and the need to project an image of control even in the face of personal turmoil.

The Role of Alcohol and Excess

For decades, golf clubs have been synonymous with luxury and indulgence. The social aspects of the sport often include expensive dinners, fine cigars, and an unspoken encouragement of alcohol consumption. The post-round drink at the clubhouse, once a celebratory tradition, can quickly become a coping mechanism for stress and pressure. Many powerful men in golf, accustomed to success and admiration, find solace in alcohol as a means of escape. Unfortunately, this can spiral into dependence, leading to impaired judgment, strained relationships, and even career-damaging incidents.

Scandals and Reputational Damage

The golf world is no stranger to scandals involving its most prominent figures. From professional players to high-profile club members, many have found themselves in the headlines for reasons beyond their performance on the course. Alcohol-related incidents, financial controversies, and personal misconduct have tainted the reputations of men who once seemed invincible. The close-knit nature of the golf community often delays accountability, as power and influence provide temporary protection. However, when these vulnerabilities are exposed, the consequences can be severe, leading to public disgrace and personal downfall.

Addressing the Problem

Recognizing and addressing these hidden vulnerabilities requires a shift in the culture of golf. More open discussions about mental health, stress management, and the dangers of excess are needed. Golf organizations and club communities must take proactive steps in promoting responsible drinking, supporting wellness programs, and fostering an environment where seeking help is not viewed as a weakness.

At its core, golf is a game of integrity and self-discipline. While powerful men may dominate the sport’s business and social spheres, true strength lies in acknowledging and addressing personal vulnerabilities. By redefining success to include balance, well-being, and responsible leadership, the golf world can move from clubhouse camaraderie to a more sustainable and healthier future for its most influential figures.

Golf has long been regarded as a game of prestige, patience, and precision, attracting powerful men both on and off the course. Business moguls, politicians, and sports icons have often found solace in the fairways, seeing the sport as a symbol of control and mastery. However, behind the polished greens and elegant clubhouses, a darker reality exists—one where power and alcoholism intersect, leading to personal and professional downfall.

The Culture of Power and Excess

Golf is not just a sport but a networking ground for the elite. Business deals are sealed over drinks at the 19th hole, and social status is reinforced through lavish club memberships. This culture of excess, while seemingly harmless, often fosters an environment where alcohol consumption is normalized and even encouraged. For men in positions of power, the pressure to maintain control and uphold an image of success can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, with alcohol becoming a crutch rather than a pastime.

The Slippery Slope of Addiction

Many high-profile golfers, from professionals to wealthy amateurs, have battled alcoholism. The solitary nature of the sport, combined with its inherent frustrations, makes it an easy breeding ground for excessive drinking. Unlike high-intensity team sports, where players rely on adrenaline and collective energy, golf requires mental fortitude and extreme patience. A bad day on the course can quickly spiral into self-doubt, and for some, the solution lies in the bottom of a glass.

The pressure to perform, both in business and on the golf course, can be overwhelming. Alcohol may initially serve as a stress reliever, helping to take the edge off after a tough round or a failed negotiation. However, the transition from casual drinking to dependency is often subtle, catching many by surprise. What starts as a celebratory toast can evolve into a habitual reliance, affecting decision-making, relationships, and health.

The Downfall of Golf’s Elite

History has shown that power and alcoholism rarely coexist without consequences. Some of golf’s biggest names have faced public battles with alcohol, tarnishing their legacies. Personal scandals, DUI arrests, and professional declines have highlighted the vulnerabilities of even the most seemingly invincible figures in the sport.

For executives and businessmen who use golf as an extension of their professional lives, the effects can be just as damaging. Alcoholism erodes credibility, strains relationships, and diminishes leadership effectiveness. It is a weakness that power cannot conceal indefinitely.

Breaking the Cycle

Recognizing the link between power, stress, and alcoholism in golf is crucial to breaking the cycle. More athletes and industry leaders are speaking openly about their struggles, encouraging a shift in the culture that prioritizes mental health over social expectations. Golf clubs and organizations have a responsibility to create environments where alcohol is not the focal point of success and camaraderie.

The fairways will always be a place of challenge and triumph, but true mastery lies in discipline, self-awareness, and the ability to resist the temptations that power brings. Only by addressing these vulnerabilities can the game—and those who play it—truly flourish.

Power and leadership often come with the illusion of strength, confidence, and control. However, beneath the surface, many men in positions of power struggle with deep-seated insecurities that can shape their decision-making, relationships, and ultimately, their legacy. The fragile ego—characterized by an excessive need for validation, hypersensitivity to criticism, and an unwillingness to admit mistakes—can be a silent but destructive force in leadership.

The Facade of Strength

Men in power are often expected to embody confidence and decisiveness. Society reinforces the idea that leaders, especially male leaders, must project unwavering certainty. However, this expectation can pressure powerful men to maintain a facade of strength even when they feel uncertain or vulnerable. Instead of acknowledging their insecurities and seeking growth, many suppress them, leading to defensive behavior, arrogance, or even aggression.

The Fear of Criticism

One of the clearest signs of a fragile ego is an intense fear of criticism. Constructive feedback, which should be an opportunity for growth, is often perceived as a personal attack. Insecure leaders may react with hostility, dismiss dissenting voices, or surround themselves with sycophants who only offer praise. This creates an echo chamber where mistakes go unchecked, innovation is stifled, and problems are ignored until they become crises.

History is filled with examples of powerful men who refused to listen to criticism, leading to disastrous consequences. From failed business empires to political scandals, an inability to accept feedback often accelerates a leader’s downfall.

The Need for Constant Validation

A fragile ego craves constant reassurance and recognition. Many insecure men in power seek validation through excessive displays of authority, wealth, or influence. This may manifest as an obsession with status symbols, extravagant spending, or a need to control every aspect of their environment.

This insecurity can also lead to unethical behavior. When the primary motivation is to maintain an image of dominance rather than serve a greater purpose, decisions become self-serving rather than beneficial to those they lead. This is why many powerful men are caught in corruption scandals, abuse of authority, and reckless decision-making.

Avoidance of Responsibility

A fragile ego makes it difficult for leaders to admit mistakes. Instead of owning up to failures, they deflect blame onto subordinates, external circumstances, or political rivals. This lack of accountability erodes trust and weakens the institutions or organizations they lead. True leadership requires humility—the ability to acknowledge shortcomings, learn from failures, and grow.

Breaking the Cycle

The most effective leaders are those who embrace self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Recognizing insecurity and addressing it through introspection, mentorship, and constructive feedback can help powerful men avoid the pitfalls of a fragile ego. True strength lies not in maintaining an illusion of perfection but in the willingness to be vulnerable and learn from others.

Ultimately, history remembers those who lead with wisdom, humility, and resilience—not those who crumble under the weight of their own insecurities.

High-stakes golf tournaments, with their lavish settings and prestigious stakes, have long been seen as a symbol of success, strategy, and precision. These events often bring together some of the most influential figures in business, where players and spectators mingle, socializing in an environment that encourages connections over shared experiences. However, alongside the competition and camaraderie comes a subtle but pervasive presence: alcohol. In this context, alcohol isn’t merely a casual indulgence—it becomes a social lubricant, often facilitating business deals and forging relationships. Unfortunately, this blend of whiskey and wedges can also unmask deeper, alcohol-driven weaknesses in leadership, particularly among those in powerful corporate positions.

The Culture of Golf and Alcohol

Golf, particularly at the high-stakes level, has long been associated with business. Elite corporate leaders often view golf tournaments as a chance to not only compete on the course but also to network, build relationships, and showcase their leadership. The casual, social nature of these events makes them an attractive setting for both professional and personal connections. However, with this unique blend of business and pleasure comes an inherent connection between golf and alcohol.

The “19th hole”—the bar or lounge area after a round of golf—is where deals are sealed, and often, where alcohol flows freely. Many participants in high-stakes tournaments may view these drinking sessions as an integral part of the experience. Yet, alcohol consumption in this environment is not just a way to unwind; it becomes a part of the power dynamics of business. The pressure to keep up with peers, impress clients, and maintain an image of success can lead to executives drinking more than they intended, sometimes to their detriment.

Alcohol as a Social and Professional Tool

For many corporate leaders, alcohol becomes a tool to navigate the complex social dynamics of high-stakes golf tournaments. Alcohol can ease nerves, facilitate connections, and encourage a more relaxed atmosphere during intense competition. However, the social acceptance of alcohol at these events can subtly encourage overindulgence. Drinking becomes not only a way to bond but also a way to showcase power and confidence, particularly when others are drinking. For some executives, this pressure to conform to the social expectations of drinking can lead to unhealthy patterns of consumption.

In high-stakes tournaments, the line between professional networking and personal drinking habits becomes increasingly blurred. Leaders often convince themselves that their consumption is just part of the business routine. What may start as casual social drinking can escalate, and over time, alcohol consumption can undermine the clarity of thought and decision-making abilities required for effective leadership.

The Impact of Alcohol on Leadership

While alcohol may seem to serve a purpose in these high-pressure, high-social environments, it also introduces serious risks, particularly for individuals in leadership positions. High-ranking executives are expected to maintain clear judgment, composure, and the ability to make sound decisions at all times. Excessive drinking can impair these abilities, clouding their judgment and creating long-term consequences that extend beyond the golf course.

Alcohol-driven decision-making, often fueled by overindulgence during these events, can lead to impulsive business moves, strained relationships, and even public blunders. The impulsivity that alcohol breeds undermines the careful, calculated decision-making needed in high-stakes corporate environments. In a culture that rewards success, these missteps are often swept under the rug, making it harder to address the underlying issues of alcohol dependency.

Breaking the Cycle of Alcohol and Leadership

The cycle of alcohol consumption at high-stakes golf tournaments, especially among corporate leaders, can be broken, but it requires a shift in both personal and corporate cultures. First, leaders must acknowledge the impact alcohol has on their decision-making and take active steps to curb consumption in professional settings. Admitting that alcohol is impairing their leadership abilities is the first step toward making positive change.

At the organizational level, companies can foster an environment that promotes healthier ways of networking and socializing, moving away from alcohol as the central focus of business interactions. This includes offering alternative activities and social events that do not revolve around drinking, helping to break the cultural norm that associates alcohol with success and power.

By confronting the alcohol-driven weaknesses in leadership revealed by high-stakes golf tournaments, corporate leaders can regain control of their decision-making, health, and professional lives. Only by addressing these hidden struggles can the integrity of leadership be restored, ensuring that whiskey and wedges are no longer a crutch, but a symbol of true skill and self-control.

Golf has always been more than just a sport; it’s a cultural symbol of status, success, and leisure, particularly in the corporate world. For decades, the fairways have served as an extension of the boardroom, where deals are struck, partnerships are forged, and reputations are built. However, beneath the polished veneer of golf’s association with power lies a troubling undercurrent: the normalization of alcohol consumption and its impact on corporate leaders. For many, the golf course is not only a playground but also a battleground for personal struggles, including alcoholism.

The Intersection of Golf and Power

In the business world, golf is a quintessential networking tool. Its leisurely pace, requiring hours on the course, provides ample opportunity for conversation and connection. It’s where hierarchies blur, and camaraderie flourishes. However, the culture surrounding golf often includes a heavy reliance on alcohol. The tradition of toasting victories, drowning losses, or simply unwinding with drinks during or after a game has become deeply ingrained.

For men in positions of power, participating in this culture can feel obligatory. Alcohol acts as a social equalizer, bridging gaps between colleagues, clients, and competitors. Yet, this seemingly harmless tradition can lead to deeper issues as casual drinking evolves into dependency.

The Stresses of Leadership

Corporate leaders face immense pressures—balancing shareholder expectations, navigating economic challenges, and managing teams, all while maintaining a façade of control and composure. The golf course, often viewed as a retreat from the rigors of the boardroom, offers a temporary escape. However, when alcohol becomes intertwined with this escape, it ceases to be a tool for relaxation and becomes a crutch.

Leaders may turn to alcohol not only during golf outings but also as a way to cope with the relentless demands of their roles. The lines between professional networking and personal consumption blur, and the normalization of drinking in these settings can mask the early signs of dependency.

The Double-Edged Sword of Image

In positions of power, image is everything. Leaders are often reluctant to show vulnerability, fearing it could undermine their authority or credibility. This reluctance extends to admitting struggles with alcohol. In many cases, high-ranking executives rationalize their drinking as part of their professional life, ignoring the toll it takes on their health, relationships, and decision-making abilities.

The stigma surrounding addiction compounds the problem. Seeking help is seen as a weakness in environments that prize dominance and control. This leads to a cycle of denial, where leaders continue to drink under the guise of networking or stress relief, further entrenching their struggles.

Breaking the Cycle

Addressing the intersection of power, alcoholism, and golf requires cultural and organizational change. Companies must foster environments that prioritize mental health and offer resources for individuals grappling with addiction. Social norms around business gatherings, including golf outings, need to shift away from alcohol as the central feature.

Additionally, leaders themselves must recognize that vulnerability is not a liability but a strength. Acknowledging struggles and seeking help can set a powerful example for others, breaking down the stigma surrounding addiction.

By reshaping the culture around golf, power, and alcohol, corporate leaders can reclaim the balance between professional success and personal well-being. Only then can the green truly become a sanctuary, free from the shadows of addiction.

In the corporate world, business and leisure often intersect in unexpected ways. One of the most iconic examples is the tradition of executives conducting deals, building networks, and forging relationships on the golf course. However, behind the idyllic image of a few rounds of golf lies a hidden issue that many overlook: the normalization of alcohol consumption. For many men in positions of power, alcohol becomes intertwined with the culture of business, and this blend of influence, stress, and alcohol can lead to dangerous consequences, including alcoholism.

The Power and Prestige of Golf in Business

Golf has long been seen as the sport of the elite. It’s a place where deals are not just discussed in boardrooms but cemented through casual conversations on the green. The game provides an opportunity for corporate leaders to demonstrate their competitiveness, focus, and strategic thinking. These traits are highly valued in business, and the golf course has become an arena where men in power can bond over their shared love of the game while establishing deeper professional connections.

However, as with many social traditions in business, the culture of golf is often paired with alcohol consumption. The “19th hole,” or the bar where golfers retreat after a round, is just as significant to the corporate golfing experience as the game itself. It’s where relationships are solidified, but it’s also where the consumption of alcohol becomes normalized, even expected.

Alcohol as a Social Currency

For men in positions of power, the pressures to perform, maintain relationships, and project an image of success are immense. Alcohol often becomes a form of social currency, a way to fit in with colleagues, clients, and peers. In these corporate settings, the ability to “hold one’s liquor” or engage in rounds of drinks without appearing out of control is sometimes viewed as a mark of strength or status.

The problem arises when this regular social drinking spills over into dependency. The line between casual drinking and alcoholism becomes blurred, particularly when alcohol is so deeply embedded in the culture of business gatherings. Many men in positions of power may not even realize when their consumption has crossed from social drinking to a deeper issue. It’s easy to justify excessive drinking in the name of networking or stress relief.

The Connection Between Power and Addiction

Addiction, including alcoholism, doesn’t discriminate based on income, success, or social standing. However, for men in powerful corporate positions, admitting to having a problem can be difficult. The very traits that make these men successful in business—control, authority, and self-reliance—can make them less likely to acknowledge or address a drinking problem.

Moreover, alcohol often serves as a coping mechanism for the stress and demands of maintaining a high-profile career. The pressures of leadership, decision-making, and constant competition can drive executives to rely on alcohol as a way to manage their anxiety or decompress after long, grueling days.

The Denial of Vulnerability

In a culture that prizes strength and dominance, admitting vulnerability can feel impossible for many corporate leaders. This is particularly true for men, who may feel an added pressure to adhere to traditional notions of masculinity, which discourage showing weakness. As a result, many high-powered executives may struggle with alcoholism in silence, refusing to seek help or admit to their dependency. They believe their power and success shield them from such issues, which only perpetuates the cycle of denial.

Breaking the Cycle

Addressing alcoholism among corporate leaders requires a cultural shift, both in business settings and society at large. First, it’s essential to redefine what success looks like—recognizing that vulnerability and asking for help are not signs of weakness but of strength. Companies need to foster environments where mental health and well-being are prioritized, and alcohol isn’t the default social lubricant.

By bringing awareness to the dangerous intersection of power, alcohol, and business, we can begin to dismantle the harmful norms that perpetuate addiction among corporate leaders. Through education, support, and open discussions about the pressures these men face, we can help them avoid swinging under the influence and instead empower them to lead healthier, more balanced lives.