Donald Trump responds to Team Europe’s Ryder Cup jest

In a striking moment at the Ryder Cup, President Donald Trump offered a humorous reply to a taunting video from Team Europe after they clinched a win over the United States.

Team Europe marked their 15-13 victory with a playful jab at Trump, who responded casually on social media, while the tournament was overshadowed by disruptive fan actions and Trump faced criticism for attending during a looming government shutdown, as Newsweek reports.

The Ryder Cup, a renowned biennial golf event featuring top players from the United States and Europe, wrapped up at the Bethpage Black Course in New York, where Team Europe secured a close 15-13 victory.

Team Europe’s Bold Victory Taunt Captivates

On the first day of the competition, President Trump made an appearance at the venue, receiving warm applause and chants of support from American fans in the crowd.

However, as the tournament progressed over the subsequent days, the atmosphere grew increasingly hostile, with some American spectators directing loud boos and jeers at the European competitors.

Rory McIlroy, a prominent figure on Team Europe, encountered significant interruptions, forced to pause his shots repeatedly due to the rowdy behavior, while his wife, Erica, faced an upsetting incident when a drink was thrown at her by an attendee.

Disruptive Fans Tarnish Ryder Cup Spirit

McIlroy later expressed deep concern over the spectators’ conduct, labeling the actions as “unacceptable” and pointing out the “abusive” language that marred the event.

He called for elevated standards in the sport, stating, “I think golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week.”

He further noted, “This should not be what is acceptable in the Ryder Cup. But, we will be making sure to say to our fans in Ireland in 2027 that what happened here this week is not acceptable. Come and support your home team.”

Trump’s Presence Draws Political Scrutiny

After their triumph, Team Europe celebrated by filming a video, apparently led by McIlroy, in which players proudly displayed the trophy and chanted together, “Are you watching, Donald Trump?”

During the formal trophy ceremony, several European supporters echoed the same chant, as McIlroy and his teammate Shane Lowry shared a laugh over the lighthearted moment.

Trump, in turn, posted a brief message on Truth Social, saying, “Yes, I’m watching. Congratulations!” His response hinted at amusement rather than offense.

Warm Ties Between Trump and McIlroy Persist

This exchange reflects the positive connection Trump has nurtured with McIlroy over time, highlighted by a friendly round of golf they played together at Trump’s Palm Beach property earlier this year, just before his inauguration.

Despite the jovial interaction between Trump and the European team, his decision to attend the Ryder Cup stirred controversy among political leaders, particularly given the pressing national issues at hand.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries openly questioned Trump’s priorities, stating, “He doesn’t have the time to meet with Democratic leaders to fund the government and address the Republican health care crisis, but Donald Trump, right now, as we speak, is at a golf event.”