Trump Stirs Controversy at Ryder Cup Amid Legal Woes

Fri Oct 17 2025 16:09:24 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

President Donald Trump takes center stage at the Ryder Cup, warning of future prosecutions while supporters rally behind him. The event illustrates his intertwining of politics and sport as legal challenges loom.

At the Ryder Cup in Farmingdale, New York, President Donald Trump captivated the crowd despite recent legal challenges he faces. His remarks suggested more of his political opponents could face legal action, reflecting a contentious relationship with the justice system. While Trump enjoyed the festivities as the 'golfer-in-chief', the atmosphere was filled with chants and support from attendees, showcasing his enduring influence among his base. Meanwhile, the ongoing prosecution of former FBI director James Comey, linked to Trump's grievances about the Russia investigation, adds to the drama surrounding Trump's political narrative as the Ryder Cup presents both a patriotic spectacle and an opportunity for the former president to connect with supporters.

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. (AP) — President Donald Trump started Friday by warning that more of his enemies will face prosecution, shaking the foundations of the American justice system by treating it as a tool of political retribution.

And then he jetted off to the Ryder Cup to enjoy the rest of the day as the golfer-in-chief, watching the U.S. compete against Europe as the sun shined and the crowd cheered.

It was the latest example of how Trump seizes the attention that comes along with high-profile sporting events, putting his personal imprint on activities that have traditionally been nonpartisan.

Standing on the tee box in white golf shoes and a dark suit, the Republican president led spectators in a “USA!” chant a day after James Comey, the former FBI director, became the first former senior government official involved in one of Trump’s chief grievances to face prosecution. Trump had demanded the prosecution out of anger over Comey’s role in the Russia investigation during his first term.

A warm welcome for Trump

Even as he pushes the bounds of the presidency in his second term, Trump found a warm welcome at the Ryder Cup. The crowd, many of whom endured lengthy security delays, chanted “USA! USA!” as Air Force One flew low over the course.

When Trump stepped away from the course after watching the afternoon matches, some in the stands chanted “48,” suggesting they want him to serve another term. “He’s doing a hell of a job for the country,” said one supporter.

As for Comey, the crowd expressed disdain for his prosecution, with many echoing similar sentiments to Trump. Golf has always provided a refuge for Trump, and the Ryder Cup was no exception.

The 'People's Country Club'

This year’s Ryder Cup represented a synthesis at the heart of Trump’s political appeal as a billionaire with populist tastes. Bethpage, on Long Island, is known as the “People’s Country Club,” one of the few public courses to host professional tournaments.

The Ryder Cup is a patriotic showdown between American and European players. Trump’s presence at the event only amplified the patriotic fervor in the crowd.

He arrived through a tunnel beneath the grandstand, greeted by roaring cheers. The atmosphere was charged as he watched the matches from a position of prominence, engaging with players and the audience alike.

Sports will become more central to Trump’s presidency

Sports are expected to play a larger role in Trump's presidency moving forward, with the U.S. hosting the upcoming Olympics and World Cup. Trump hinted at reshaping sporting events to fit his political narrative, indicating he intends to leverage athletics to enhance his cultural influence.

At Bethpage, many attendees echoed support for Trump, while critics reflected the divide in public opinion about the intertwining of his presidency with sports.