With the Ryder Cup just around the corner, Europe’s golfers are preparing for a very different kind of opponent off the course: former US President Donald Trump.
But sources say players won’t have to worry about him roaming the greens or causing chaos at the tee boxes when the competition kicks off on Friday.
The European team has been briefed that Trump’s presence will be carefully managed, easing fears about potential distractions during one of golf’s biggest events.
Trump Scheduled to Arrive Late, Skipping Opening Session
As revealed earlier this week, Trump is not expected to be on-site until late morning, meaning he will miss the first session and only be present for the afternoon fourballs.
This timing was decided to minimize the impact of the extensive security operation that comes with hosting a former US president.
Despite these precautions, there remains some intrigue about how Trump might involve himself once at Bethpage Black, given his notoriously unpredictable nature.
European Team Receives Reassurances About President’s Conduct
Justin Rose, a key figure on Team Europe, confirmed that Trump is expected to keep a lower profile than some feared.
“Obviously he’s going to bring attention and patriotism to the event,” Rose said.
“I don’t think he’s going to be on the tee box with us or roaming the course. There’ll be a lot of noise, but hopefully not ongoing distractions.”
Rose added that Trump’s engagement is positive for the sport, bringing more eyes to golf globally, even if his presence is always unpredictable.
Fans Face Tighter Security Rules
Tournament organizers have also implemented new safety measures for spectators.
Fans have been banned from bringing range finders, following last year’s assassination attempt in Pennsylvania where such a device was reportedly used.
Other items, including large umbrellas and hard-cased cup holders, will also be seized at entry.
Spectators have been advised to arrive as early as 5am on Friday to accommodate the heightened security operation surrounding Trump’s visit.
Trump’s Recent Sporting Appearances Highlight Political Strategy
Trump has increasingly used sports to bolster his public profile, including a high-profile appearance at Chelsea’s Club World Cup celebrations earlier this summer.
Rose was asked whether Team Europe would welcome Trump on stage should they win the event on his home turf.
“Absolutely, 100 per cent,” he said. “It would be a great opportunity.
He may or may not want to be on stage congratulating the winning team, but he is the President, and out of respect, it would be a huge moment.”
Eyes on Bethpage Black for Both Golf and Politics
As the Ryder Cup kicks off, all eyes will not only be on the golfers competing for glory but also on the carefully managed appearance of a former US president.
With security tight and players reassured, the hope is that the focus will remain on the sport – and not on the political fireworks that often follow Trump wherever he goes.