As one ascends the corporate ladder, it seems an unwritten rule that golf becomes an essential part of their repertoire. One of the greatest twentieth-century American golfers, Ben Hogan, once said: “The most important shot in golf is the next one.”
In Pakistan, and other former British colonies, golf as a ladder to success is particularly noticeable. In fact, we can slightly tweak this famous quote to suit the corporate world and say: the most important shot in golf is the putting of a deal. Why do executives trade in their suits for golf attire, their professional hard work for greens? Is it a quest for fresh air, or a clever ploy to avoid actual work? Let us dig it out: golf is the ultimate symbol of corporate success.
It is like the secret handshake of the business elite. Imagine two CEOs meeting on the course, discussing mergers and acquisitions while making their way through sand traps. It is like a real-life game of “Risk” — minus the board and dice.
Golf provides a unique platform for networking, building relationships, and closing deals. The tranquil atmosphere and leisurely pace allow executives to unwind and connect with clients on a more personal level. It is like a corporate retreat, minus the trust falls and awkward team-building exercises.
But there is more to golf than just business. It is a status symbol, a badge of honour that screams, “I have made it!” The expensive clubs, the tailored attire, the exclusive club membership — it is all part of the package. Golf becomes a rite of passage, a sign that one has finally arrived in the corporate stratosphere.
In Pakistan, where other games are dwindling, the rise of golf among executives is an interesting phenomenon. Perhaps it is a nod to our colonial past, a way of embracing the traditions of our former rulers. Or maybe it is just a fun way to escape the chaos of Karachi’s or any other major city’s regular humdrum and enjoy some fresh air, with the added benefit of enjoying a perfect drive. Whatever the reason, golf has become an integral part of corporate culture.
So, the next time you see a CEO trading in their suit for a golf glove, don’t be surprised. They are just playing the game — and loving every minute of it as the rewards are phenomenal. I am reminded of a sher by Ghalib which encompasses the spirit of the gainful game:
Sikhe hain mah-rukhon ke liye hum musawwari
Taqrib kuchh to bahr-e-mulaqat chahiye
This sher captures the essence of golf in the corporate world — a game that requires finesse, strategy, and a touch of elegance.
Haroon Rashid Siddiqi
Karachi
