When asked if Trump had discussed Turnberry with the Prime Minister, the spokesman declined to provide details, reiterating that venue decisions are ultimately made by sporting bodies.

Trump has reportedly approached Sir Keir Starmer multiple times regarding the possibility of hosting the Open at Turnberry, a claim that has not been denied by his spokesman.

A feasibility study is currently being conducted to assess whether Turnberry and its infrastructure can support increased spectator numbers, focusing on transport and accommodation capabilities.

US President Donald Trump has expressed interest in having the 2028 Open hosted at his Turnberry golf course, although Downing Street has clarified that such decisions are made independently.

While the Government engages with sporting bodies regarding tournaments, the spokesman emphasized that the final decisions on venues rest with the relevant organizations.

Darbon's comments represent a shift from former R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers, who previously stated that Turnberry would not be considered for the Open while Trump owned it due to concerns about the event's focus.

Mark Darbon, the new chief executive of the R&A, acknowledged that while Turnberry's condition has improved, significant logistical challenges remain, particularly concerning road and rail access and local accommodation.

The Prime Minister's spokesman confirmed that Whitehall officials have been in discussions with the R&A about the possibility of hosting the tournament at Turnberry.

The Trump Organisation has owned Turnberry since 2014, and Trump has consistently voiced his desire for the Open to return to this historic venue.

Logistical issues, including access to roads and railways, as well as accommodation for attendees, are believed to complicate the potential for staging the Open at Turnberry.

Turnberry last hosted the Open in 2009, which drew 120,000 fans, raising concerns about whether the local infrastructure can accommodate the expected increase in attendance, especially with the 2025 event at Royal Portrush anticipated to attract 278,000 spectators.