Donald Trump picks British winner of the Masters but snubs Rory McIlroy

might have stormed back into contention at the with a superb second round of 66, but it doesn't seem like he impressed . Despite being a golf fanatic, the US president has been absent from the tournament at Augusta, although he has still had his say following an exhilarating two days of action.

McIlroy moved to six under par on Friday, leaving him just two shots off leader Justin Rose. Sandwiched between them is on seven under, a player well known to the 78-year-old. DeChambeau joined Trump's campaign trail prior to his election win last November and was regularly seen at his rally events.

Trump referenced his friend when asked who he was now backing to win the tournament. He also named one British golfer among his leading contenders, but it wasn't McIlroy.

Trump said: "They're all friends of mine. They have some great ones. Scottie Scheffler's great. Bryson DeChambeau is great. Justin Rose, they're all friends of mine. It's going to be a very good Masters. Looks like it's going to be a very good Masters. Some fantastic golfers at the top."

Like McIlroy, the 44-year-old Rose is challenging for a maiden green jacket. He faces a serious task to hold off the world's best over the next 36 holes but has at least been boosted by the backing of the US president.

Trump's involvement in golf extends beyond being a fan. He owns 16 courses worldwide and has been involved in the talks over a potential merger between the and , although an agreement is yet to be reached.

Ironically, McIlroy publicly endorsed Trump's involvement after he returned to power. He said his involvement would be "good for the game of golf" if he could influence a deal.

Trump's own prowess on the course, however, has long been the subject of scepticism. Trump's claim to have a 2.8 handicap, as well as a number of his scores and tournament wins, have been ridiculed by critics.