Trump in Doonbeg? This isn't a normal golf event; it's a political tee shot that divides the Irish island and turns the 2026 Irish Open into a true spectacle. While the former president makes his appearance at Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg, things are stirring mightily off the green. The question isn't just who will claim victory, but also how much attention this tournament will garner due to politics.
In Dublin, the mood was anything but birdie-worthy: Thousands of demonstrators marched through the streets to protest Trump's policies, especially regarding Gaza, war, and migration. Even here in Doonbeg, home to the golf resort, smaller groups of opponents gathered, while the Gardaí, the Irish police, managed the situation with a strong but orderly presence.
Political Greens and Local Coffers
However, where there's shadow, there's also light – or at least a different perspective. While national polls show clear rejection of Trump, many locals in Doonbeg see his presence and the resort as a real economic engine. Jobs, more tourists, ringing cash registers – for them, this isn't a political statement, but pure reality. Shortly before, Trump had met in Dublin with President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheál Martin before traveling west to spend the night in Doonbeg and then 'rock' the Irish Open.
Rory's Ball and Air Force One
And then came the image that perfectly captures the whole spectacle: While Rory McIlroy searched for his ball on the third hole, Air Force One thundered in a low flyover above Trump International Golf Links. A true spectacle that underscores the drama between high-end golf and international politics. The 2026 Irish Open is thus not just a sporting highlight, but a global event making headlines far beyond the green.
