President Donald Trump’s recent trip to Scotland included a visit to his Turnberry golf course, where he played alongside U.S. Ambassador to Britain Warren Stephens and his son Eric. Landing in Scotland on Friday, Trump’s itinerary also featured meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney. In his social media posts, Trump shared a video showcasing his golf shots at Turnberry, praising the course by quoting golf legend Gary Player, who had noted its status as one of the top golf courses he had played in his lengthy career.
The Turnberry course has a storied history, having hosted four Open Championships since 1977. However, following the January 6, 2021 Capitol Riots, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club announced that the prestigious event would not return until they believed the coverage could focus solely on golf, detached from political controversies surrounding Trump. This decision showcased the lingering impact of Trump’s actions on his properties, particularly in light of the significant cultural and political backlash he faced.
While Trump enjoyed his time on the golf course, hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the U.S. Consulate in Edinburgh, protesting his visit and expressing their disapproval. Protesters criticized Starmer for a trade deal designed to mitigate the effects of U.S. tariffs on U.K. goods, suggesting that it undermined local interests while accommodating Trump’s visit. This public sentiment highlighted the deep divisions and tensions surrounding Trump’s relationships abroad, particularly in the context of recent political events.
Gary Player, who has won two Senior Open Championships at Turnberry, advocated for the return of the Open, arguing that every president has made mistakes and should not be singled out. He emphasized the importance of fairness and inclusion, asserting that not holding the tournament at Turnberry was unjust and highlighted its status as one of Scotland’s premier golf courses. Player’s plea underscored the broader golf community’s desire to see the historic course reinstated in the championship rotation.
In a related development, the PGA Tour plans to return to Trump Doral in 2024 after a hiatus since 2016, following Trump’s initial presidential campaign. This return marks a significant moment for both the tour and Trump’s golfing enterprises, particularly given the controversial nature of his business dealings and political stances. Trump purchased the Turnberry resort in 2014 for $60 million, and the last professional tournament held there was the 2015 Women’s British Open, won by Inbee Park.
With a history of hosting esteemed golf events, Turnberry remains a focal point of both golf heritage and political discourse. The four Open Championships held there were won by renowned players, solidifying its place in the annals of golf history. As Trump continues to navigate his relationships within both the sport and the political realm, the ongoing debate regarding events at Turnberry reflects broader societal tensions regarding his legacy and the implications of political actions on public spaces.
