Rory McIlroy not bothered by Trump's expected appearance at Irish Open: 'Who are we to say no?'

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.Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts on the first green during a practice round prior to the 126th U.S.
OPEN at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club on June 16, 2026 in Southampton, New York.(Mike Mulholland/Getty Images)THE CRAIG CARTON SHOW–UNFILTERED, UNAPOLOGETIC AND UNMISSABLE.
DOWNLOAD HIS DAILY PODCAST NOW!"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."General views of the Trump International golf resort in Doonbeg, Ireland.(Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)TRUMP CONGRATULATES RORY MCILROY ON BACK-TO-BACK MASTERS WINS: 'BECOMING MORE AND MORE A LEGEND'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 ...