Eric Trump, son of former President Donald Trump, emphasized that Turnberry should host The Open again, reflecting on his father's contributions to golf. While acknowledging the course's infrastructural issues, he insists it stands ready for the prestigious tournament and suggests that political controversies have hindered its selection.
Eric Trump Advocates for Turnberry to Host The Open Golf Championship
Eric Trump Advocates for Turnberry to Host The Open Golf Championship
In a recent interview, Eric Trump argues that his father's Turnberry golf course deserves to host The Open Championship, despite political hurdles and logistical challenges.
The son of former President Donald Trump, Eric Trump, has expressed strong support for Turnberry, the golf course owned by his family, to host The Open Championship once again. During an exclusive interview with BBC Sport, he argued that the course deserves recognition for its excellence and suggested that his father has played a pivotal role in promoting golf.
Eric Trump, 41, who manages his father's golf properties, stated, "There's no-one that's been better for the game of golf. He's been a cheerleader his entire life." He remarked that Turnberry, having last hosted the championship in 2009, deserves a return as a testament to his father's legacy. However, he acknowledged that by the time the tournament returns, his father may no longer be in office, with President Trump’s current term set to conclude in early 2029.
The R&A, responsible for organizing The Open, indicated that logistical issues related to local infrastructure need addressing before Turnberry can be redeveloped as a venue for the event. Its chief executive noted that while Turnberry is still considered a potential site, some improvements surrounding the course must be made. Eric countered this, asserting that Turnberry's facilities are top-notch. "You could host the Open Championship on that course tomorrow," he explained, optimistic that any obstacles could be resolved with strategic solutions.
Earlier comments from the R&A's former head suggested that political implications linked to Trump could hinder Turnberry's inclusion in the tournament's roster while he remains associated with the venue. Eric Trump claimed that perceptions have shifted, saying, "The political side never came up," suggesting that the focus of the R&A is now on the quality of the courses.
Discussions about Turnberry's hosting status have also involved the UK government, with Eric noting an acknowledgment by government officials of the course's significance to Scotland’s economy. Recently, President Trump showcased the course's potential, referring to it as "the best resort in the world." He emphasized its importance during a visit with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Notably, Eric Trump introduced a new 18-hole course at another family-owned resort in Aberdeenshire, which has received financial backing from the Scottish government to promote a golf tournament. He expressed confidence in Turnberry, declaring, "It’s probably the last links course that will ever be built in the UK," and likened its value to "a Mona Lisa."
Despite criticisms concerning environmental impacts from local residents and the course's lack of profitability, Eric defended the Trump Organization's contributions to Scotland, asserting that economic development has been significant and that their commitment to excellence prevails over profit concerns.
