President Trump had a quick and lighthearted response for Rory McIlroy and his European teammates after they playfully taunted him following their Ryder Cup win.
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After Europe clinched its first victory on American soil since 2012, the team posted a video celebrating with the trophy and chanting, "Are you watching? Are you watching? Are you watching, Donald Trump?"
Trump, an avid golfer, reposted the clip on Truth Social Sunday night with a simple reply. "Yes, I'm watching. Congratulations!" he wrote.
Trump had attended the tournament at Bethpage Black on Friday with his granddaughter Kai, but his presence didn't give the U.S. the jolt it needed. Team USA stormed back late but ultimately couldn't overcome a massive early deficit, losing 15-13.
The Americans nearly pulled off a historic Sunday rally, tying a singles record with 5½ points in the first seven matches. But Shane Lowry's clutch 6-foot putt on 18 sealed the win for Europe after Russell Henley missed a chance to extend the comeback.
McIlroy was a central figure all week, both on and off the course. The world No. 2 faced relentless heckling from U.S. fans. Some also claimed to be Trump fans.
It boiled over Friday when he flipped off a group while walking off the 11th hole, and again Saturday when he told fans on the 16th to "shut the f-k up." At one point, he refused to putt until the crowd quieted.
Security was increased and fan-behavior warnings flashed across video boards. McIlroy later called the fan conduct "unacceptable."
"Golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week," he said.
