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Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka observe Air Force 1 landing at Irish Open

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 10:30 AM

Last updated Sep 13, 2026

Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka observe Air Force 1 landing at Irish Open

Summary

Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka were in the middle of their third rounds at the Irish Open in Doonbeg on Saturday when Air Force 1 landed at the course. The aircraft arrived carrying President Donald Trump, who owns the venue hosting the tournament. Both professional golfers acknowledged the unusual distraction while navigating their rounds during the day. McIlroy, who was attempting to avoid double bogeys at the time, described the event as a unique experience. Koepka expressed appreciation for the arrival, noting his long-standing personal relationship with the President. Play continued as scheduled despite the arrival of the aircraft.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Air Force 1 landed at the Doonbeg golf course during Saturday’s third round.
•Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka were both actively playing their rounds when the plane arrived.
•President Donald Trump owns the golf course where the Irish Open is taking place.
•Brooks Koepka has maintained a personal acquaintance with the President since childhood.
•The event occurred during the third day of competition at the Irish Open.

Latest Updates

10:30 AMYahoo Sports — Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka react to Air Force 1 landing during their rounds at the Irish Open

What they're saying

"
Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka were playing their third rounds at the Irish Open when Air Force 1 touched down in Doonbeg on Saturday. President Donald Trump arrived at the golf course that he owns to take in the action at the Irish Open on Saturday, while Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka were in action.
— Yahoo Sports

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