President Donald Trump is expected to make an appearance during the latter stages of this week’s Irish Open, and while defending champion Rory McIlroy admitted it will make things a bit “different,” he’s not giving too much thought to the potential distraction.
Trump is set for a two-day trip to Ireland this upcoming weekend, and with the Irish Open being played at his resort in the County Clare village of Doonbeg, his making a quick stop and potentially handing the trophy to the champion on Sunday makes plenty of sense.
McIlroy, who has played golf with President Trump in the past, did not engage in any political chatter when asked about the U.S. President’s expected arrival, but instead kept the focus on the golf and the task at hand.
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“It’s going to be different, but 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 golf 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.
“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.”
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With the name ‘Trump’ on the entrance of the property, the president can’t exactly be told he can’t attend the event and watch a bit of the action, which McIlroy is also very aware of.
“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?”
Beyond Trump making a public appearance at one of the premier golf tournaments across the pond, this week’s Irish Open could be viewed as a test run for future events, most notably The Open.
Turnberry, the well-known venue in Scotland, was part of The Open’s rota of courses and played host to the major championship four times between 1977 and 2009. Trump purchased the resort in 2014, and the R&A, which organizes the championship, has not brought The Open back to the property since the acquisition, while consistently citing logistical issues as the biggest hurdle.
