Trump Tees Off at Turnberry in Scotland, Echoes Gary Player’s Praise Amid Controversy

President Donald Trump took a swing at his Turnberry golf course in Scotland this past Saturday, showcasing his passion for the sport during a brief stop on his overseas journey. The visit to the iconic resort, which Trump purchased for $60 million in 2014, was part of a packed five-day trip that includes meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Scottish First Minister John Swinney, as well as a visit to his Aberdeenshire golf property.

Accompanied by his son Eric and U.S. Ambassador to Britain Warren Stephens, Trump shared a video montage of his shots on social media, proudly quoting golf legend Gary Player. Player, a two-time Senior Open champion at Turnberry, reportedly called it one of the 'Top Five Greatest Golf Courses' in his 73 years as a professional. Trump’s caption read, 'Thank you, Gary!'

Turnberry has a storied history, having hosted four Open Championships between 1977 and 2009, with victories by legends like Tom Watson and Greg Norman. However, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club has stated that the Open won’t return to Turnberry until coverage can focus solely on the sport and the course, a decision influenced by political events following the 2021 Capitol Riots. Player himself urged a reversal last year, arguing for fairness and highlighting Turnberry’s unmatched quality alongside Carnoustie as Scotland’s finest.

Meanwhile, Trump’s visit wasn’t without controversy. About 100 miles away in Edinburgh, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the U.S. Consulate, voicing opposition to his presence and criticizing Starmer for a recent trade deal aimed at dodging hefty U.S. tariffs on British goods.

On the golf front, there’s buzz about Trump’s properties returning to the professional circuit. Reports suggest the PGA Tour will host an event at Trump Doral next year for the first time since 2016, signaling a potential resurgence for his venues. Turnberry last saw professional action with the 2015 Women’s British Open and hasn’t hosted a Senior Open since 2012.

Trump’s love for golf continues to intersect with his public life, blending sport with politics on a course that remains a lightning rod for both admiration and debate.