Why Trump’s Turnberry Golf Course Has Been Left Off The Open Championship Roster
Despite its world-class reputation and a major investment in upgrades, Donald Trump’s Turnberry golf resort in Ayrshire, Scotland, remains excluded from hosting The Open Championship, one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments.
Trump has long advocated for the return of The Open to Turnberry, stating in 2023 that “everybody wants to see the Open Championship here.”
However, The R&A, the organization responsible for overseeing The Open, has taken a different stance.
Officials have confirmed that Turnberry will not be considered as a venue in the near future, citing security risks and the likelihood of political protests associated with Trump’s ownership.
Although the decision is not officially labeled as a permanent ban, Turnberry has effectively been “blacklisted” from the event rotation due to these ongoing concerns.
In response, representatives from Trump’s organization emphasized their commitment to maintaining Turnberry’s legacy as one of the finest golf destinations in the world.
Trump himself pointed to a personal investment of nearly $200 million to revitalize the course, including renovations led by renowned golf course architect Martin Grant Hawtree.
Trump also acknowledged the support and encouragement he received from former R&A CEO Peter Dawson, and reiterated his belief that Turnberry deserves global recognition, describing it as “the No. 1-rated golf course in Europe.”
While the R&A’s decision currently stands, the ongoing debate highlights the intersection of sport, politics, and public perception—and the challenges that even elite venues can face on the world stage.
