Donald Trump, a helicopter, and a local hero shaking up the Irish Open – Saturday had all the ingredients for drama on the green. US President Donald Trump watched as local favorite Shane Lowry surged to a four-shot lead on the Doonbeg Course, which bears his name, heading into the final round of the Irish Open.
After his political engagements in Dublin, golf enthusiast Trump personally landed on Ireland's west coast. Marine One touched down with an impressive spectacle on the course Trump has owned since 2014. Lowry's triumphant ascent to the top of the leaderboard has truly ignited the tournament.
The 39-year-old had already won his home Open as an amateur in 2009 and triumphed in 2019 at Royal Portrush for his only major victory on Irish soil. However, since then, Lowry has only won one other individual event. The world No. 53 delivered a truly strong putting performance and posted a stellar round of five under par (65 strokes), bringing him to 16 under par overall.
“I had so much fun out there on the back nine. The fans were incredible,” Lowry enthused. “They cheered me all the way home, and hopefully they'll do that again tomorrow. I'm looking forward to tomorrow. In the final group, leading my home tournament – that's a great position, and it should be a blast.”
Denmark's Jacob Skov Olesen is in second place, despite a costly three-putt on the 18th hole, which resulted in his only bogey of the day. It would take a remarkable turn of events for Sunday's winner not to come from the final group. Chile's Joaquin Niemann holds third place at nine under par, with Tom McKibbin and Daniel Rodrigues two shots behind.
Rory McIlroy will not be able to defend his title after a dismal day for the Masters champion. McIlroy posted a round of 74 and fell to two over par for the tournament. Nevertheless, he was happy to see his close friend Lowry at the top. “I think there’s a great buzz around the tournament because Shane is up there and leading,” said the six-time major champion, who has previously golfed with Trump.
McIlroy added that it was “pretty cool” to witness the spectacle surrounding Trump's arrival. He confirmed that he would attend a dinner with Trump, who applauded the world No. 2 on the 18th hole. Irish media reported that the 80-year-old Trump watched the third round from the 18th green, flanked by his sons Eric and Don Jr. He is also expected to attend the final round on Sunday and perhaps even present the trophy.
