When we look back at previous editions of the Irish Open in the years to come, there is no doubt that the 2026 edition will stand out as perhaps the most memorable of all-time.

There are a couple of reasons for that, both on and off the course.

Shane Lowry’s record-breaking win will live long in the memory, with the Offaly storming to victory on the back of some remarkable play in Doonbeg. A home winner is always results in a big occasion, with his 11-shot winning margin making this one just a little bit extra special.

Then you had the presence of Donald Trump during the final two rounds.

As the owner of the venue where the tournament was taking place, the American President travelled across the Atlantic to take in the weekend’s action.

He would go on to play a role in the festivities after Lowry’s win, handing the trophy to the Irishman. Trump then marked the occasion by announcing that he was removing the tariff on Irish whiskey imported into the USA.

Shane Lowry & Donald Trump link up at Irish Open

Shane Lowry had quite a few interactions with Donald Trump over the weekend, being greeted by the US President on the first tee on Sunday before being reunited for the trophy presentation.

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The Clara man would also be spotted taking a selfie with the 80-years old soon after.

Smile 😁🤳

Irish Open winner Shane Lowry grabs a selfie with President Trump following his win in Doonbeg⛳#BBCGolf pic.twitter.com/a0c5wOoRi5

— BBC SPORT NI (@BBCSPORTNI) September 13, 2026

Trump’s presence at the tournament was a point of contention in the buildup to the Irish Open, although some feel that the benefits of his involvement were also clear in recent days.

Speaking to the BBC, Shane Lowry said that Trump brought a huge amount of eyeballs to an event that may not be all that well-known globally.

“It was a bit mad”

Shane Lowry receives the Irish Open trophy from US President Donald Trump at Doonbeg 🏆#BBCGolf pic.twitter.com/mXMwlIRj8p

— BBC SPORT NI (@BBCSPORTNI) September 13, 2026

It was a bit mad to be honest. We’ve never never had that, never thought it was going to happen.

His course here in Doonbeg, they’ve put on a great show this week.

I think it’s amazing to have him here. I’m sure this tournament has been shown all over the world because he’s here.

I’m thankful that I put on the show that I did. I did some good stuff, so it was good.

Shane Lowry riding high after Irish Open success

This victory will no doubt have been a sweet one for Shane Lowry, who had endured a fairly difficult season in 2026.

He shared some lovely moments with the home fans after the win, with his mother Bridget among those in attendance. His father Brendan was unable to make it, having had prior commitments with his Offaly GAA club.

Lowry will be aiming to build on this performance moving forward, with the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor quickly approaching.