Double Masters champion Rory McIlroy found himself being singled by golf mad US President Donald Trump last night at an exclusive White House gala dinner held in honour of visiting Royal guests King Charles 111 and his wife Queen Camilla.
McIlroy is believed to have been the only elite sportsperson to be in the room filled by some of the world’s leading business dignataries.
The Northern Irishman-born golfer, and in his first public appearance since capturing a second straight Masters, was accompanied by his wife, Poppy.
And for someone like Trump who is not afraid to go off script during his public speaking appearances, the American President interrupted his preprepared speech to praise McIlroy for his recent performance at Augusta.
In the room @McIlroyRory pic.twitter.com/9r6GFaZ1B9
— Fatiha (@TOURMISS) April 29, 2026
Trump said:
The entire world has been uplifted by this distinct and special character that we share, this impossible daring, this unconquerable courage. It really is, it’s unconquerable.
Speaking of unconquerable, where is Rory McIlroy? Stand up Rory will you please.
That was unconquerable courage. That was very good Rory. I don’t know if that helps them talk about this wonderful speech, but I had to interrupt my speech because I watched that man win a tournament, that was a tough one.
Congratulations, very proud of you. Now I’ll get back to my speech Rory, okay?
THANK YOU MR. PRESIDENT ..
US President singles out @McIlroyRory during White House gala dinner to honour visiting King Charles 111 and Queen Camilla
It seems Rors, a British citizen, was the only sportsperson in attendance.
And maybe now overdue Sir Rory McIlroy Knighthood… pic.twitter.com/w16GVkhKAj
— Fatiha (@TOURMISS) April 29, 2026
Of course, Trump and McIlroy are no strangers to each other living in Florida and each passionate about their golf, having also enjoyed the odd game in each other’s company.
