Scottie Scheffler has expressed his support for President Donald Trump’s decision to attend the Ryder Cup’s opening day at Bethpage Black, calling it a boost for Team USA during what he described as “a tough few weeks for our country.”
Speaking to the media on Tuesday ahead of Friday’s opening matches, the world No. 1 reflected on the recent assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Kirk was fatally shot on September 10 while hosting an event at Utah Valley University. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, 22, now faces multiple charges including aggravated murder.
“To have the president here, it’s been a tough few weeks for our country with some of the stuff that’s been going on, and to have our president here and for us to represent the United States of America, albeit being in a golf tournament, is extremely important for us,” Scheffler said. “We’re excited to be on home soil with the home crowd, and we’re ready to get this tournament started.”
Team USA captain Keegan Bradley echoed Scheffler’s remarks, dismissing suggestions that Trump’s attendance might be a distraction.
“I’m deeply honored that the President of the United States is going to come support our team at the Ryder Cup,” Bradley said. “Anytime you can be around a current president is a phenomenal thing, but when you’re representing your country at a place like Bethpage Black in New York, having the president there to support you is absolutely incredible. I’m really grateful to him for doing that for us.”
While Bradley said he had not yet decided whether Trump might speak directly to the team before play begins, he emphasized the significance of the president’s presence.
“I think this first tee at Bethpage is going to be a sporting event to remember across any sport, and then you add on the President of the United States standing there—I really think it’s going to be something that everyone will remember forever,” Bradley said.
New York State Police have confirmed they are on high alert, acknowledging the Ryder Cup could be considered a “target” in the aftermath of Kirk’s killing.
