Trump returns as honorary chairman for 2026 Presidents Cup
The PGA Tour announced President Donald Trump will serve as honorary chairman for the 2026 Presidents Cup at Medinah Country Club. Trump previously held the role in 2017. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp said the tradition of engaging world leaders continues, and the event will feature U.S. and International teams.
Trump’s appointment marks the second time he has held the honorary role, following his 2017 appearance at Liberty National, where he presented the trophy after the U.S. team’s 19-11 victory. The PGA Tour’s Brian Rolapp framed the choice as part of a tradition that has included seven U.S. presidents, from Gerald Ford through Joe Biden. The 2026 event, scheduled for late September at Medinah, will feature captains Brandt Snedeker and Geoff Ogilvy leading 12-man rosters. Trump confirmed his acceptance via Truth Social, a post later amplified by the White House account.
This appointment could reinforce the PGA Tour’s deliberate engagement with political figures, potentially drawing both attention and criticism from fans and sponsors. The honorary role may boost the event’s international profile and media coverage, but it also risks politicizing a sporting competition. Spectators and players with differing views might feel the gesture either celebrates tradition or injects partisanship into golf, affecting how the tournament is perceived across a divided public.