Rory McIlroy: Defending champion expecting 'different' Irish Open with President Trump visit

Image source, Getty Images Image caption, McIlroy is hoping to win his third Irish Open title this week

Rory McIlroy admits this year's Irish Open will feel like a "different" spectacle given US President Donald Trump's anticipated visit during the tournament's latter stages.

Trump is expected to attend the event - which is being held at his resort in the County Clare village of Doonbeg - this weekend as part of a two-day visit to Ireland.

McIlroy has previously played golf with Trump, who earlier this year praised the Northern Irishman's accomplishments on the course after winning back-to-back Masters titles.

"It's going to be different, but the one thing I'd say is his golf resorts have hosted PGA Tour events, European Tour events, LIV events," McIlroy told BBC Sport NI's Stephen Watson.