In a candid interview, Eric Trump, son of former President Donald Trump, expressed his belief that Turnberry Golf Course in Ayrshire deserves to host The Open Championship again. He acknowledged, however, that by the time this event materializes, his father may no longer be in office. The iconic venue last hosted the major tournament in 2009, preceding its acquisition by Donald Trump in 2014.
In his discussion with BBC Sport, Eric defended his father's contributions to golf, stating, "There’s no one that’s been better for the game of golf. He’s been a cheerleader his entire life." As he looks ahead, Eric remains hopeful that Turnberry will grace the tournament's hosting list once more, dubbing it an honor that would underline a significant legacy. He also mentioned the likelihood of the family transitioning back to a strictly commercial enterprise after his father's presidency concludes in 2029.
Despite the R&A's recent comments regarding logistical challenges concerning local infrastructure at Turnberry, Eric Trump maintained confidence in the course’s readiness to host the championship. The R&A's chief executive, Mark Darbon, indicated that while the venue's quality is not in question, improvements to roads, rail, and accommodations are necessary before an Open can be hosted there. Eric countered these concerns, asserting that Turnberry is perfectly situated and its condition is impeccable.
Reflecting on his discussions with R&A officials earlier this year, Eric noted that any lingering political undertones around hosting Turnberry may have shifted. "I think the calculus today is a bit different," he remarked, emphasizing the R&A’s primary focus on venue quality over politics.
He also mentioned recent talks regarding the Open’s potential return during his father’s meeting with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, where they discussed Turnberry's importance to Scotland’s economy. Meanwhile, Eric highlighted the family’s dedication to golf in Scotland, underscoring the significance they place on their resorts, like the new 18-hole course opening in Aberdeenshire.
Despite financial losses, Eric Trump proudly stated, “We don’t give a damn… This is our Mona Lisa.” He added that any criticism they’ve faced regarding environmental impacts are dismissible, driving home that their commitment to golf and local development remains steadfast.
In his discussion with BBC Sport, Eric defended his father's contributions to golf, stating, "There’s no one that’s been better for the game of golf. He’s been a cheerleader his entire life." As he looks ahead, Eric remains hopeful that Turnberry will grace the tournament's hosting list once more, dubbing it an honor that would underline a significant legacy. He also mentioned the likelihood of the family transitioning back to a strictly commercial enterprise after his father's presidency concludes in 2029.
Despite the R&A's recent comments regarding logistical challenges concerning local infrastructure at Turnberry, Eric Trump maintained confidence in the course’s readiness to host the championship. The R&A's chief executive, Mark Darbon, indicated that while the venue's quality is not in question, improvements to roads, rail, and accommodations are necessary before an Open can be hosted there. Eric countered these concerns, asserting that Turnberry is perfectly situated and its condition is impeccable.
Reflecting on his discussions with R&A officials earlier this year, Eric noted that any lingering political undertones around hosting Turnberry may have shifted. "I think the calculus today is a bit different," he remarked, emphasizing the R&A’s primary focus on venue quality over politics.
He also mentioned recent talks regarding the Open’s potential return during his father’s meeting with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, where they discussed Turnberry's importance to Scotland’s economy. Meanwhile, Eric highlighted the family’s dedication to golf in Scotland, underscoring the significance they place on their resorts, like the new 18-hole course opening in Aberdeenshire.
Despite financial losses, Eric Trump proudly stated, “We don’t give a damn… This is our Mona Lisa.” He added that any criticism they’ve faced regarding environmental impacts are dismissible, driving home that their commitment to golf and local development remains steadfast.
