Justin Rose says Trump would be welcome on Ryder Cup stage if Europe wins
Rose says the president’s presence would be a boost for golf, as security and logistics are worked out ahead of Friday’s opening-day events at Bethpage Black
Justin Rose said Wednesday that President Donald Trump would be welcome to join Team Europe on stage if they win the Ryder Cup this weekend at Bethpage Black, speaking to reporters ahead of his practice round. Rose, a Chelsea fan, was asked about a hypothetical moment after reporters referenced Trump’s appearance on stage with Chelsea after the club won the Club World Cup this summer at MetLife Stadium. Trump is slated to attend the opening day of the Ryder Cup on Friday, but there are no confirmed plans for him to appear at Bethpage beyond that.
Rose told reporters that he would welcome the opportunity to have that moment, saying: "One-hundred percent, yeah, would love the opportunity to have that opportunity." He joked that the president might not want to be on the stage if the Americans win, but added that "of course, he’s the President, ultimate respect, and that would be a great opportunity." Trump’s attendance on Friday is expected, but there is no official plan for his presence at Bethpage beyond the opening day.
Ryder Cup officials have warned that security will be tight. Spectators will undergo TSA-style screening at entrances around the Clubhouse and surrounding areas; if fans leave secure areas, they will be screened again upon reentry. Gates are scheduled to open at 5 a.m. on Friday, and spectators are urged to minimize personal items as they plan their day. Officials also indicated that Trump’s arrival timing remains unofficial and could occur later in the day, with no published schedule yet.
Rose downplayed the likelihood that Trump’s presence would distract the European team, saying he does not expect the president to be on the tee box or roaming the course. "There will just be a lot of noise around it, but I’m not sure there will be the continued distraction of it. I could be wrong though," he added. "Listen, it’s great for golf that he’s engaged in the game and obviously, he brings a lot of eyeballs with him."
Trump’s planned appearance underscores the degree to which politics can intersect with big sporting events. Officials have noted that the Ryder Cup marks the fourth major sporting event the president has attended in the New York metropolitan area since taking office, and the third in the last month, following a Sept. 11 game at Yankee Stadium and the U.S. Open men’s final in Queens. Some reports have indicated the PGA of America suggested arriving later in the day, but no official timetable has been announced.
In any case, the event at Bethpage remains a test of security coordination and spectator access, with the latest advisory outlining the screening regime and item restrictions for attendees.