Trump Arrives at US Open, Security Delays Match Start by 30 Minutes

The arrival of US President Donald Trump at the US Open final on September 7, 2023, generated a mixed response from the crowd, prompting both cheers and boos. The event, held at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York City, was delayed by 30 minutes due to enhanced security measures in place for the President’s attendance.

As Trump waved from his box seat, an ABC television broadcast captured the moment, although the live audio reaction from the crowd was not included. Tournament organizers later issued a statement confirming that the start time of the match was pushed to 14:30 ET to provide fans with additional time to navigate the security checks.

Mixed Reactions Outside the Stadium

Trump’s presence at the US Open stirred considerable debate, particularly given his polarizing reputation in a Democratic-leaning city like New York. According to a poll conducted in late July and mid-August, his approval rating stood at approximately 40 percent.

Outside the stadium, fans shared a spectrum of opinions. Dave, a banker from New York City, expressed indifference, stating, “I couldn’t care less if he comes or not. Who is? He’s a convicted felon.” In contrast, retired tennis fan Karen Stark from Michigan voiced a more accepting viewpoint, noting, “He can go wherever he wants and attend a match if he wants to.”

Since taking office in January, the President has attended various major sporting events, including the Super Bowl in February and several Ultimate Fighting Championship bouts. His involvement in sports extends beyond attendance; he has made headlines by issuing an executive order banning transgender women and girls from competing in female sports and has pressured the Washington Commanders to revert to their former name, the Redskins.

Security Measures at Major Events

The heightened security protocols at the US Open reflect ongoing concerns surrounding large public gatherings, particularly those involving high-profile figures. The US Open is one of tennis’s four Grand Slam tournaments and attracts a diverse audience, making security a critical aspect of event management.

As the match finally commenced, the atmosphere in the stadium remained charged, with many spectators eager to see how the presence of the President would impact the event. The US Open continues to navigate the complexities of hosting significant figures while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.