Donald Trump is once again the center of controversy, this time in the world of golf, after claims emerged from the White House suggesting the president is responsible for ensuring the 2025 Ryder Cup is taking place in New York.
The remarks have ignited sharp backlash online, with many fans mocking what they see as an exaggerated attempt at credit-taking.
According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Trump’s recent executive order, which temporarily blocked a strike by the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) unions, directly enabled the international tournament to go ahead at Bethpage Black on Long Island.
The biennial competition between Team Europe and Team USA is one of golf’s most prestigious events, drawing tens of thousands of fans and global media attention.
Leavitt praised Trump’s decision during a press conference, stating, “This event is one of the greatest sporting events in the world and it would not be taking place this year without President Trump’s help.” She noted that Trump acted following requests from all five labor unions representing LIRR workers, who were locked in a pay dispute with management.
Bryson DeChambeau, a Ryder Cup player and two-time major champion, also offered glowing praise, crediting Trump with “protecting” the fan experience.
“Thanks to President Trump’s decisive leadership, the Ryder Cup experience will be everything fans and the golf community deserve,” he said.
Social media erupts with sarcasm and skepticism
The internet, however, was far less impressed. Critics and golf fans quickly took to social media to question the narrative. Many pointed out that the Ryder Cup has occurred every two years since 1927 – despite wars, economic crises, and yes, labor disputes.
“It would still be taking place,” one user posted bluntly on X (formerly Twitter). Another mocked, “He’s being very modest. Because at the same moment he saved the Ryder Cup, he also ended two wars and dropped drug prices by 1100%.”
Some called the White House messaging “bootlicking,” while others joked that Trump had saved the sun from not rising that morning.
Meanwhile, labor tensions remain unresolved. The unions had requested a 16% wage increase over four years, while management countered with a 9.5% offer. Trump’s executive order initiated a 120-day “cooling-off” period via an emergency board to mediate the conflict, but a final resolution has yet to be reached.
Trump is expected to attend the Ryder Cup’s opening day later in the morning to avoid disrupting early play, a move that reportedly eased concerns among organizers, especially after his high-security presence delayed the U.S. Open tennis final earlier this month.
For many, the real story is not about golf, but about political optics and opportunism.
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