Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 504 - Lee Abbamonte's Wild Global Golf Adventures
In this unforgettable episode of the Fore Golfers Network Podcast, host Bill Hobson welcomes Lee Abbamonte — a true global citizen, travel icon, and golf adventurer. Known as the youngest American to visit every country in the world, Lee's journey from Wall Street executive to world-traveling storyteller is nothing short of remarkable.
Lee's story begins with a simple study abroad trip to London, which sparked an insatiable curiosity for the world beyond the trading floor. What started as a personal challenge — visiting 100 countries before turning 30 — soon transformed into a mission to see every nation on Earth. By the age of 32, he had done just that, earning a place in travel history.
But Lee's adventures didn't stop there. Along the way, he discovered a new passion: golf. Whether teeing it up on lush fairways in Puerto Rico or makeshift greens in remote corners of the globe, Lee's golf journey is as extraordinary as his passport stamps. During the pandemic, he set a new goal — to play as many of the top public courses in the U.S. as possible. Fast forward to today, and he's played more than 790 different courses, from bucket-list classics to hidden gems.
In this episode, Lee shares some of his wildest and most inspiring stories. You'll hear what it was like to play golf in Kabul, Afghanistan, with armed guards protecting him from nearby conflict, and how he navigated chaotic situations like a riot in Algeria and a gunfire-filled border crossing from Egypt to Libya. Through it all, Lee's passion for discovery and connection shines through — proving that travel, like golf, is as much about the journey as it is the destination.
Lee and Bill also discuss the cultural bridges golf can build around the world, how the sport gives travelers a unique way to connect with people, and why every golfer should pack their clubs no matter how far they roam. Lee also offers a glimpse into his upcoming travel plans — including golf expeditions to India and Sri Lanka in 2026 — and shares hints about his upcoming book and potential documentary projects.
If you've ever dreamed of combining your love for golf with global adventure, this episode will fuel your wanderlust and inspire you to take the next swing — wherever it might lead.
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