STRAFFAN, IRELAND – SEPTEMBER 07: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland poses with the trophy after winning the Amgen Irish Open in a play off during day four of the Amgen Irish Open 2025 at The K Club on September 07, 2025 in Straffan, Ireland. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Rory McIlroy may have left it late to swoop in and transform a potentially humdrum Irish Open into something more akin to one of the four majors, at the K Club, in Co Kildare, on Sunday evening, but Fáilte Ireland was still working hard to leverage one of the furtheest reaching Irish Open’s ever to boost the country’s golf tourism credibility even more.
This year’s tournament was broadcast in over 160 countries, reaching an audience of more than 300 million people, positioning Ireland firmly on the global stage. Fáilte Ireland research shows that golf visitors typically spend three times more than the average leisure tourist, with most of that spend going directly into local economies on accommodation, dining, and transport. This means golf tourism sustains jobs and supports communities across the country.
Brian O’Flynn, Head of Ireland’s Ancient East at Fáilte Ireland, commented: “The Amgen Irish Open is more than a sporting event, it’s a platform to tell the story of Ireland as a destinatioin. While golf is the hook, the overall visitor experience – from Kildare’s Thoroughbred equine offering, heritage sites like Brú na Bóinne and Glendalough to vibrant towns and stunning landscapes – is what makes Ireland truly special. This event, alongside the Irish Legends and Irish Challenge tournaments earlier this year, reinforces Ireland’s position as a world-class golf destination.”
Paul Keeley, Interim CEO of Fáilte Ireland, added: “Golf tourism is a cornerstone of Ireland’s tourism offering and a key driver of economic growth. Ireland is recognised globally as one of the top destinations for golfers, and events like the Amgen Irish Open allow us to showcase not only our world-class courses but also the unique hospitality and experiences that make a golf trip to Ireland unforgettable.“
“Ireland’s Ancient East, with 115 of Ireland’s 400 golf courses, is a perfect example of how golf drives tourism beyond the traditional hotspots, delivering real benefits to regional economies.”
During Irish Open Week, Fáilte Ireland, in partnership with Tourism Northern Ireland, hosted up to 40 Irish golf-related businesses – including golf clubs, resorts, and hotels – providing them with a platform to engage with domestic and international golf fans and inspire future golf holidays in Ireland.
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, said: “The Amgen Irish Open is an excellent example of how major sporting events can deliver significant economic and reputational benefits for Ireland. As well as attracting tens of thousands of visitors and driving significant benefit to the local economy, it provides a powerful platform to showcase Ireland’s world-class golf courses, unique culture, and warm hospitality to a global audience. Events like this not only support local businesses and jobs but also reinforce Ireland’s position as a premier destination for international tourism and investment.”