trump Visits Ryder Cup, But European Team Extends Lead
bethpage State Park on Long Island hosted the Ryder Cup on Friday, and saw an unusual level of security with TSA-style screening points established near the clubhouse and first tee.The heightened measures proved necessary due to the unpredictable nature of former President Donald Trump‘s visit.
Trump arrived at Republic Airport via Air Force One and was greeted by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman before traveling to the course. He then observed the first match of the afternoon from behind protective glass before venturing out to greet American golfer Bryson DeChambeau, a close ally and chair of the president’s council on sports and fitness, as he walked to the first tee with his partner Ben Griffin.
Trump stood a few feet away as DeChambeau drove over a set of trees, setting up an approach shot to the first green.He later returned to his seat, applauding and acknowledging American players as they passed, even receiving an imitation of his signature dance from U.S. captain Keegan Bradley.
Seated alongside PGA of America president Don Rea, PGA CEO Derek Sprague, and Blakeman, Trump reportedly drew parallels between supporting the American team and a recent visit to the New York Yankees, suggesting the latter had contributed to their playoff push. Blakeman noted that Trump “insisted” on leaving the viewing box, stating, “if he feels like doing something, he’s going to do it.” Nine-time major winner Gary Player also joined Trump in the box at one point.
DeChambeau birdied the first hole following his interaction with Trump,briefly energizing the American side. Bradley, hoping for a shift in momentum, even remarked during a Sky Sports interview while the U.S. team trailed in the morning matches, “Well, we just had the president fly over in Air Force One, so I got a feeling things are gonna turn here.”
Though, the anticipated turnaround did not materialize. While the European team continued to build their advantage, Trump departed Bethpage at 2:50 p.m., 40 minutes ahead of the schedule released by the White House that morning.
the Americans trailed 3-1 when Trump arrived and ultimately lost the day’s play,finishing down 5-2 to the European team.
(top photo: Jared C. Tilton / getty Images)
(Ian O’Connor contributed reporting.)
