‘I’M NOT THE MOST APPROACHABLE MAN AFTER I FINISH A ROUND OF GOLF’

THOMAS BJORN

What has been your closest brush with death?

I fell out of a tree when I was about six years old. I didn’t quite make it to the ground, though. The collar of my jumper got caught on a branch as I fell and was actually strangling me. If my brother hadn’t been there to help me, I’m not sure what would have happened. I’m glad I never got to find out, though. For a few seconds I could hardly breathe. That was a very scary moment.

What is your earliest memory?

I can vaguely remember things about the first house I lived in with my family. I can definitely remember my bedroom. I would have been about three or four at that time.

What is your most annoying trait?

I’m not the most approachable in*the 20 minutes after I finish a round of golf. I think most journalists would confirm that to be the case. I’m not always proud of how I have behaved. But, on the other hand, I’ve always told everyone that I need those 20 minutes.

Who do you most admire?

I have three men in mind, all state leaders. Those I most look up to most are Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela and John F. Kennedy. They are all equal first in my mind for what they all achieved and for what they all stood for. And yet, I admire each of them for very different reasons, too. If you told me that I had to pick one, it would be Churchill.

The world today would be a very different place if not for him.

What scares you the most?

I don’t think about this that much, but the thought of my children not being well really scares me. I haven’t had to experience anything serious with any of them thank goodness, but I’ve seen so many other examples of what kids have gone through. Whenever I see something like that I’m very grateful that my kids are well.

Who would play you in the movie of your life?

I’d have to say Bruce Willis. He and I have the same hairstyle.

If you could go back in time and change one thing, what would it be?

I would like to go back and speak to Adolf Hitler. I would tell him that so many of his ideas were wrong, to put it politely. But I’m sure I’m not alone in that.

What was your nickname at school?

It was ‘Banjo’ for some reason. My brother was called that first and it carried over to me. I have no idea why. Maybe because of my surname.

Have you ever said “I love you” and not meant it?

Yes, I have. And no, I’m not saying any more on that subject.

What was your first job?

I used to work for my dad putting electrical cables in the ground when I was about 17 or 18. It was good spending time with him. But it was very hard work. I’d rather be a golfer, though. Doing something like that when I was young makes me appreciate more what I do for a living now.

What is your favourite smell?

When I walk into a bakery in Scandinavia early in the morning. I love the smell of the newly-baked bread. Growing up, I experienced that a few times on the way home from a late night out. I’m not sure they even have places like that anymore, which is a pity. But back then it was wonderful. If I close my eyes, I can still imagine that smell.

What was your first car?

My first car was a Vauxhall. I’m not sure what kind. It didn’t cost a lot, I know that. I was 18 when I got it. Let’s just say it got me around. Cars have never really been a big thing for me.

You can give up either golf or sex… which one?

Man, what a question. I’d have to kill myself if I gave up either one; there would be no reason to live (laughs). But it would probably be golf, to be honest.