Michael Jordan's passion for golf landed him in hot water when he unknowingly broke a long-standing rule at the prestigious Miami course.
NBA legend and billionaire athlete Michael Jordan may have dominated basketball courts, but one strict rule at an elite golf club in Miami proved to be his undoing.
The six-time NBA champion, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time, found himself permanently banned from the exclusive La Gorce Country Club in 2012 for violating the establishment's rigid dress code.
Jordan, who boasts an estimated net worth of $3.5 billion according to Forbes, has spent his post-basketball years indulging in a variety of sports, from NASCAR racing to deep-sea fishing.
However, his passion for golf landed him in hot water when he unknowingly broke a long-standing rule at the prestigious Miami course.
Cargo shorts controversy
According to the L.A. Times, Jordan teed off at La Gorce in a pair of cargo shorts, seemingly unaware that the club had a strict policy against them.
The NBA icon who is the world's richest athlete, had managed to play 11 holes before staff approached him and requested that he return to the clubhouse to change into more suitable attire.
However, Jordan refused to interrupt his game, leading to an immediate ban from the club.
His representatives later defended his actions, arguing that he had played at the course numerous times before in cargo shorts without issue.
"Michael Jordan did wear cargo pants. He had been there many times before and had worn cargo pants previously, and had never been made aware that he was violating any dress code," his rep stated.
"This time, he was made aware of the violation on the 12th hole, and at that point, he did refuse to interrupt his game and return to the clubhouse and change. We were not aware that he is not allowed to return to La Gorce. I guess it's their loss - as MJ is a great golfer and a great guest."
Jordan's history of fashion rebellion
This isn't the first time Jordan's choice of clothing has caused controversy.
During his legendary basketball career, he was repeatedly fined $5,000 by the NBA for violating the league's strict uniform policy.
The infraction? Wearing his iconic Nike 'Air Jordan' sneakers, which were deemed non-compliant with NBA regulations at the time.
Despite his unceremonious exit from La Gorce, Jordan remains an avid golfer and is often spotted on some of the most exclusive courses worldwide, and not even a lifetime ban can stop him.
Comments