Donald Trump made an unexpected appearance at the Irish Open on Saturday, flying Air Force One low over the Trump International Golf Links & Hotel in Doonbeg, County Clare, as a prelude to his arrival at the tournament.
The presidential jet took a low path over the course while Rory McIlroy, the event's headline attraction, was searching for his ball after a wayward tee shot on the third hole. The flyover occurred as McIlroy, along with volunteers and spectators, were looking for his ball, leading to a disruption of the search and an unusual scene on the course. McIlroy went on to make a double-bogey six on the hole.
Earlier in the day, McIlroy had been seen shaking hands with Eric Trump, who spoke positively about his family's relationship with the golfer. Eric Trump described McIlroy as a "great master of golf" and a "friend of the family," noting that their children attend the same school in Florida.
Trump was en route to Shannon Airport, from where he was scheduled to take a helicopter to the golf course to watch the event. His presence at the tournament, held at one of his properties, brought significant logistical challenges, as acknowledged by McIlroy.
"I think when the sitting President of the United States of America visits anywhere, it becomes a logistical challenge," McIlroy said. "There's a lot that goes into it. 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."
Despite the logistical hurdles, McIlroy welcomed Trump's attendance, stating that his presence enhances the international profile of the Irish Open. "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 commented.
The decision to host the Irish Open at Doonbeg was influenced by McIlroy, who had previously suggested it as a suitable venue. "The Irish Open has not been in this part of the world in several years, since Lahinch in 2019. I think it would be a good thing," he said.
Fellow Ryder Cup player Shane Lowry was leading the tournament entering the weekend.
