Rory McIlroy says ‘we’ll keep our heads down and play’ amid Donald Trump's Irish Open visit

The United States president is in Ireland this week as part of an official two-day visit and it is expected he will attend the Irish Open

Donald Trump and Rory McIlroy (PA)

Rory McIlroy admits there are some logistical challenges associated with Donald Trump visiting this week’s Amgen Irish Open but said the players would just “keep our heads down and play”.

The United States president is in Ireland this week as part of an official two-day visit and it is expected he will attend the DP World Tour event being hosted at Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg.

Extra security protocols will have to be put in place for the visit but McIlroy said: “Who are we to say no?”

The world number two told BBC Northern Ireland: “It’s going to be different with him being here but we’re here to play a golf tournament and it’s a good golf course so we’ll keep our heads down and play.

“I think the weekend when he’s here crowds will be limited, obviously there’s a lot that goes on.

“Logistically it proves some challenges, absolutely, but at the same time if he wants to come and watch the Irish Open who are we to say no?”

Trump has been an occasional visitor to golf events, most notably last year’s Ryder Cup at Bethpage.