Eric Trump Touts Rory McIlroy's Support for Irish Open at Trump Golf Course

The former president's son says the Northern Irish golfer helped ensure the tournament would be held at the Trump property in County Clare.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 12:07pm

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Eric Trump, the son of former President Donald Trump, has praised Northern Irish golfer Rory McIlroy for his support in helping to bring the Irish Open golf tournament to the Trump family's golf course in County Clare, Ireland. Eric Trump said that "without Rory's support," the event may not have been held at the Trump property, and he promised the 2026 tournament will be "the best Irish Open that Ireland has ever seen."

Why it matters

The relationship between the Trump family and professional golfers like Rory McIlroy has drawn scrutiny, with critics questioning whether the Trumps are using their political connections and properties to gain influence in the sport. This announcement highlights the continued close ties between the Trump family and high-profile golfers.

The details

According to Eric Trump, Rory McIlroy has become a "friend" of the Trump family and has been "super supportive" of them. Eric said he was with McIlroy just two weeks ago when the golfer played at the Trump golf course in Jupiter, Florida. Eric promised that the 2026 Irish Open held at the Trump property in County Clare will feature a "perfect" course, property, and hospitality, and that they will "put on a good show."

  • The 2026 Irish Open is scheduled to take place from September 10 to September 13.

The players

Eric Trump

The 42-year-old son of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Rory McIlroy

A 36-year-old professional golfer from Northern Ireland who has won multiple major championships.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States and Eric Trump's father.

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What they’re saying

“Rory's become a friend. And frankly, I'd say without Rory's support, I'm not even sure if we'd have it here.”

— Eric Trump

“The course is going to be perfect. The property is going to be perfect. The hospitality is going to be perfect. We're going to put on a good show.”

— Eric Trump

The takeaway

The continued close relationship between the Trump family and high-profile golfers like Rory McIlroy raises questions about the influence the Trumps may wield in the sport, especially as they host major tournaments at their own golf properties.