Rory McIlroy not bothered by Trump's expected appearance at Irish Open: 'Who are we to say no?'
Trump Expected to Drop In on Irish Open at Doonbeg Resort
County Clare, Ireland – President Donald Trump is slated to visit Ireland this weekend, and his stop‑over may land at the Irish Open, the country’s premier golf championship, which is being played at his Doonbeg resort in County Clare.
The Irish Open, a two‑week event that attracts some of the world’s top golfers, will see the defending champion Rory McIlroy face a field that includes many of the sport’s leading names. McIlroy, who has previously played alongside Trump at a golf event, said the President’s presence “will be different” but made no effort to turn the conversation toward politics.
“The one thing I'd say is his golf resorts have hosted PGA Tour events, European Tour events, LIV events,” McIlroy told BBC Sport. “He's a big fan of golf, he's a wonderful supporter of golf. He's got a beautiful property here in Doonbeg – it's the first time I've played it. I wouldn't say it's a true links course, it's a bit of an Americanised version of a links course, but it's still a great golf course and should provide a good test for the week.”
He added that while Trump’s arrival will change the atmosphere, the focus will remain on the competition. “It’s going to be different with him being here but we're here to play a golf tournament and it's a good golf course and keep our head down and play.”
McIlroy also acknowledged logistical challenges. “Obviously, there's a lot that goes on. So, logistically, it provides some challenges, absolutely. But at the same time, if he wants to come and watch the Irish Open, who are we to say no?” he said.
Trump’s two‑day trip to Ireland coincides with the final stages of the Irish Open, and his property’s name is emblazoned on the entrance to Doonbeg’s course. The President has previously congratulated McIlroy on back‑to‑back Masters victories in an unrelated statement, but the golf world’s attention is now focused on whether the President will simply observe or take a moment to hand the trophy to the champion on Sunday.
Beyond the immediate spectacle, the Irish Open may serve as a trial run for future major tournaments. Trump’s Turnberry resort in Scotland—also owned by the former President—has a history of hosting The Open Championship, but the Royal and Ancient Golf Club (R&A) has avoided bringing the major back to the course since Trump acquired it in 2014, citing logistical issues as a primary barrier.
For the Irish Open, McIlroy remains committed to the sport itself. “It’s a good golf course and keep our head down and play,” he reiterated, reminding fans that the event is still, at its core, a competition for the best in the world of golf.