on Wednesday night brushed off criticism of his hosting the Saudi-backed LIV golf tournament, partying with the players and other sporting stars in Manhattan on the eve of the event.
Accompanied by his wife Melania, Trump was seen with his frequent golfing partner Dustin Johnson, 38 – with whom he will play on Thursday in the pro-am. Johnson was accompanied by his actress wife Paulina Gretzky.
Also present was Caitlyn Jenner, who Trump shook hands with, and rapper Nelly, who performed on stage.
The latest in the LIV Golf Invitational Series will be staged at Trump’s Bedminster, course from July 29-31, Breaking News with 12 teams and 48 golfers competing for a $4 million top prize.
The upstart LIV tour has managed to poach some big names, offering more pay to those frustrated with the operations of the PGA, including Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka and Indian News . USA News
Trump and his wife Melania are seen on Wednesday night arriving at the welcome party in Manhattan
Donald Trump on Wednesday night speaks to golfer Dustin Johnson at a party in Manhattan to celebrate the tournament
Trump chats to Greg Norman, CEO and commissioner of LIV Golf, on Wednesday during the launch party
Caitlyn Jenner, herself a keen golf player, shakes hands with the former president on Wednesday night
Earlier this year the PGA moved to ban players who participate in LIV events and this month the Department of Justice opened an investigation into the PGA for anticompetitive behavior.