Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy’s head-to-head battle at the Optum Golf Channel Games received high praise from Eric Trump, son of President Donald Trump. Scheffler’s team ultimately claimed victory after a thrilling single-shot shootout against McIlroy.

The competition featured several top players including Shane Lowry and Keegan Bradley. Golfers were tested across multiple challenges, such as driving, short-game shots, a 14-club challenge and a fast-paced relay. The event took place at Trump National Golf Club with Eric Trump and his niece, Kai, in attendance.

Speaking to the Daily Mail Eric Trump praised the format saying it brought a fun and modern feel to the sport.

“I absolutely love it. Golf needs a lot more of this… it keeps golf young, keeps golf fun. It seems like every sport has a skills challenge other than golf, it’s awesome to have the first one here. (via HITC)

He added, “It works incredibly well… these guys love it too. They’re having a blast. Golf can be a formal game, but also golf needs a little bit of informality… you need that in order to make a sport mainstream. Golf has never been hotter.”

The event followed a strong year for both Scheffler and McIlroy. Scheffler won six titles in 2025 including The Open Championship, and was named Player of the Year. Rory McIlroy also enjoyed a standout season completing the career Grand Slam with his Masters victory and later winning the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award.

Rory McIlroy reacted positively after Golf Channel Games appearance

Rory McIlroy looked to enjoy himself at the Optum Golf Channel Games especially during the relay challenge where he was seen running across the green to play a bunker shot.

After the event, McIlroy shared his reaction on X pointing to the fun format and his focus on growing the game. He wrote:

“Great time at the inaugural @Optum @GolfChannel Games. Excited to extend my partnership with Versant as we continue to create more golf content and make it easier for golfers to connect with the game. Now off to Sports Personality of the Year…”

Rory McIlroy later ended his 2025 season on a high by winning the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award. He finished ahead of other nominees, including darts world champion Luke Littler, Formula One champion Lando Norris, England players Chloe Kelly and Hannah Hampton and Women’s Rugby World Cup winner Ellie Kildunne.