Trump Attends Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black as Europe Retains Trophy

President Trump Attends Ryder Cup with Granddaughter Kai. WhiteHouse.gov

US President Donald Trump made a high-profile appearance at the Ryder Cup on Thursday, arriving at Bethpage Black in New York under one of the most intense security operations ever seen at a sporting event in the United States.

Air Force One flew low over the course just after 11:00 local time (16:00 BST), before landing at a nearby airport. Roughly 45 minutes later, Trump appeared on the grounds with his granddaughter, Kai, a young golfer who will likely play for the University of Miami in 2026 when she enrols.

The 79-year-old president was greeted with a mix of cheers, chants of “U-S-A,” and scattered boos as he walked onto the course. He pumped his fists, waved to supporters, and saluted during the playing of the national anthem as jets flew overhead.

Security Operation Like No Other

Trump’s visit required about 500 law enforcement officers in a coordinated effort that included the US Secret Service, CIA, FBI, and multiple local police forces. Snipers, bomb disposal squads, and canine units were deployed, while Trump himself stood behind a bullet-resistant glass enclosure alongside his granddaughter enclosure near the first tee.

Major Stephen Udice of New York State Police confirmed the day ended without incident, though he acknowledged fears of political violence following the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk.

“Our goal was clearly to avoid any threats, but to achieve that by deterring any potential threat with our presence,” Major Udice said.

Mixing Politics and Sport

At the tournament, Trump appeared relaxed, chatting with US golfer Bryson DeChambeau, embracing American captain Keegan Bradley, and sharing a brief exchange with European skipper Luke Donald, who said Trump told him, “You’re becoming a real great leader.”

Trump, who owns multiple golf courses himself and has played with DeChambeau before, expressed confidence in the American side. “I think we’ll be ok,” he said upon arrival. “All great golfers.”

President Trump on course for the Ryder Cup, greeting Bryson DeChambeau. WhiteHouse.gov

Europe Has the Last Laugh

But Trump’s presence wasn’t enough to turn the odds in the US Team's favour. Europe, led by Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose, retained the trophy despite a late US rally, extending their dominance in the storied biennial competition.

Adding a playful twist, the European team posted a video after their win, chanting: “Are you watching, Donald Trump?” while celebrating the trophy. Trump responded online with a tongue-in-cheek reply: “Yes, I’m watching. Congratulations!” on his social media platform Truth Social.

A Presidential Sports Routine

This marks the second major sporting event this month where Trump’s security requirements reshaped the atmosphere. Earlier in September, the US Open men’s final was delayed by half an hour to accommodate his attendance.

The White House later noted that Trump played a role in ensuring the Ryder Cup went ahead as scheduled, citing an executive order he signed to prevent a potential rail strike on Long Island that could have disrupted transport to the event.

Despite the cheers, jeers, and political theatre, Trump’s Ryder Cup outing reinforced one thing: America’s most prominent sports fan rarely misses a big game — even if the result doesn’t go his way.

Reported by Orbital News

Credit: WhiteHouse.gov