World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler believes President Donald Trump’s presence at Bethpage Black this week could give Team USA an extra edge as they bid to reclaim the Ryder Cup from Europe.
Scheffler, a four-time major champion, is set to lead from the front under captain Keegan Bradley. He says Trump’s support and energy could lift the squad’s confidence at a crucial moment.
Trump, a lifelong golf enthusiast, will attend the tournament on Friday rather than for the opening tee shot, a decision that organizers say may ease congestion for fans traveling to the course. The President maintains close ties with several players, including Bryson DeChambeau, who currently chairs the Presidential Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition.
Scheffler revealed that he often receives encouraging messages from Trump. “He does a great job of feeding confidence to everyone around him. I’ll get a call or text from him after wins, and it means a lot,” the 28-year-old said.
The Ryder Cup arrives at a somber moment for the country. On September 10, Trump lost close friend and political ally Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated during a college campus tour in Utah. The following day, the President attended 9/11 memorial services and, later that week, joined tens of thousands of mourners at State Farm Stadium in Arizona.
Despite the heavy backdrop, Scheffler stressed the pride Team USA feels competing on home soil. “The flag means a lot to us. Being here in New York is special, and having the President here after a difficult few weeks for the country is extremely important. We’re proud to represent the USA and can’t wait to get started.”
The world’s top-ranked golfer also downplayed the pressure that comes with his status. “I don’t think about expectations. That’s wasted space in my brain. What matters is my preparation, and I’m ready to compete.”
Meanwhile, Trump’s administration has taken credit for ensuring the Ryder Cup could even go ahead this week. On Monday, press secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed the President intervened to prevent a Long Island Rail Road strike that threatened to disrupt transport to Bethpage. “This is one of the greatest sporting events in the world, and it would not be happening this year without President Trump’s help,” she said.
