Defending champion Rory McIlroy said President Donald Trump’s expected appearance at the Amgen Irish Open this weekend will add prestige and global attention to the event, even as it creates security headaches and possible disruption on the course.
The U.S. president is scheduled to visit Ireland on Saturday and Sunday as part of an official two-day trip that includes meetings with Irish leaders. He is expected to travel to Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, County Clare — the course he owns, which is hosting the DP World Tour event for the first time. Extra security, limited crowds over the weekend, and possible brief pauses in play are anticipated.
McIlroy, speaking ahead of the tournament, acknowledged the practical difficulties but framed the visit as a net positive.
“When the sitting president of the United States of America visits anywhere, it becomes a logistical challenge,” the world No. 2 said.
“They obviously have to lock down a specific area and make sure that it’s safe for him to travel into, and the entire delegation, whoever that is.
“Logistically, it provides a bit of a challenge, but we are at one of his properties that he has kindly provided for us to play a golf tournament.”
He added: “If the president of the United States wants to come watch a little bit of golf, I think we are all happy to be here, grateful to be here. His presence at the Irish Open makes it a truly international event. That brings more attention and eyeballs to the Irish Open, and it can only be a good thing.”
McIlroy, who has played golf with Trump in the past, also said he did not know the exact protocol for Saturday’s arrival, including whether play might be interrupted.
“Look, is it a little disruptive to play? Absolutely,” continued McIlroy. “But again, there’s protocols in place for a reason, and all we can do is follow them and abide by them, and whenever we’re ready to play again, we put our heads down and we go and play.”
The Northern Irishman, chasing a third Irish Open title after last year’s dramatic playoff win at The K Club, also confirmed he had been consulted when the DP World Tour considered moving the event to Doonbeg and had supported the idea.
The course, a Greg Norman design later modified after Trump’s 2014 purchase, sits on the Atlantic coast and will play as a par-70 this week.
Organizers and Irish authorities have prepared for heightened security and possible protests. Trump may present the trophy on Sunday, as he has at other golf events.
