20.07.2025

"DeChambeau Supports Trump's Turnberry Golf Bid"

PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland (AP) — American golfer Bryson DeChambeau appears to have a good relationship with President Donald Trump, with the pair once enjoying a round that has been watched more than 15 million times on YouTube

In Portrush, Northern Ireland, American golfer Bryson DeChambeau has publicly expressed his support for President Donald Trump's Turnberry golf course in Scotland. DeChambeau, a two-time major champion, discussed his views during a press event ahead of the British Open, which is set to take place at Royal Portrush.

DeChambeau emphasized the quality of Turnberry, describing it as one of the best golf courses in the world. He stated, "I look at it as a golf course. It’s one of the best golf courses in the world, and I’d love for it to be a part of the rotation." Although he has not played the course himself, he has heard numerous positive reviews and believes that it deserves to host the Open Championship once again.

Turnberry has a significant history in the British Open rotation but has not hosted the championship since 2009, prior to Trump acquiring the resort. The last Open held there featured a memorable playoff where a 59-year-old Tom Watson lost to Stewart Cink after making a bogey on the final hole. Currently, Turnberry remains listed on the R&A's ten-venue British Open rotation, yet it is not actively participating due to logistical challenges that need to be addressed before being reinstated. R&A chief executive Mark Darbon noted that discussions with Trump Golf leadership, including Eric Trump, have been constructive but highlighted that transportation and other logistical issues must be resolved before Turnberry can again host the championship.

Despite the hurdles, DeChambeau is confident in Trump's management of the venue. He remarked, "He’d still probably respect the R&A and what they’re trying to accomplish." His interactions with Trump go beyond mere admiration; the golfer has shared the stage with the president at a Florida election party in November before Trump's reelection announcement and has previously golfed alongside him at the White House.

The two have also participated in a widely viewed golf challenge at Trump's Bedminster Golf Club in New Jersey, which garnered over 15 million views on YouTube. DeChambeau recalled the experience with enthusiasm, stating it was enjoyable and contributed to his growing popularity in both golf and social media circles.

As DeChambeau prepares for the Open, he has shown a determined spirit, finishing with a commendable 6-under 65 in the second round after struggling with a 78 in his opening round. His relationship with Trump and his advocacy for the Turnberry course highlight the intersection of sports and politics, particularly in the context of golf's storied traditions and its future within competitive venues.

With the British Open just around the corner, DeChambeau's remarks reflect both a desire for the historical Turnberry course to reclaim its place in the championship rotation and a close personal connection with the former president, showcasing the broader implications of celebrity endorsements in the world of professional sports.