Donald Trump could play bigger role than expected at Presidents Cup

Donald Trump’s Presidents Cup appearance on Sunday could involve far more than simply presenting the trophy at Medinah Country Club.

The final day between Brandt Snedeker’s USA team and Geoff Ogilvy’s Internationals is finely poised heading into the singles, setting up a potentially dramatic conclusion in Chicago.

The United States President is expected to attend the final day of the contest between the United States and the International team, but he could also address players and spectators before the action begins.

According to multiple sources cited by Golfweek, Trump has requested around 15 minutes to speak from the first tee before Sunday’s singles matches get underway.

The PGA Tour has not confirmed whether the speech will take place.

The organisation has said only that it is preparing for Trump’s potential visit, while the White House had not responded to a request for comment before publication.

Trump’s attendance was already confirmed after he accepted an invitation to become Honorary Chairman of the 2026 Presidents Cup.

It is a role he previously held in 2017, making him only the second world leader, alongside Barack Obama, to serve as Honorary Chairman twice.

The position has traditionally been used to connect the Presidents Cup with political leaders. 

Former U.S. presidents Gerald Ford, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Obama and Joe Biden have all held the role, while international leaders including Justin Trudeau, Scott Morrison and Julia Gillard have also served.

Wyndham Clark welcomes Trump appearance

Trump’s planned visit has received a positive reaction from members of the US team.

Two-time U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark said it would be an extraordinary experience for the players to have the President watching them compete.

“Being an American and having the President of the United States coming to watch you play golf is something that as a kid you don't ever imagine or fathom happening,” Clark said.

Trump is no stranger to golf’s biggest team events. 

He attended last year’s Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black and will now return to the spotlight at another major international competition.

Trump's expected Presidents Cup appearance comes at the end of a busy weekend, following meetings and a state dinner with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday and an expected appearance at the Texas-Tennessee college football game on Saturday.

He announced his Honorary Chairman appointment in August, saying he was looking forward to seeing two teams “loaded” with talent.

Whether he simply watches Sunday’s action or takes the microphone before the opening tee shots, Trump’s presence is likely to be one of the major talking points surrounding the Presidents Cup finale.