Trump Attends US Open Final, Delays Match with Mixed Reactions

The arrival of US President Donald Trump at the US Open final on September 7, 2023, sparked a mix of cheers and boos, resulting in a significant delay to the match. Enhanced security measures led to a 30-minute postponement of the event at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York. Tournament officials announced that the start time was pushed back to 14:30 ET to allow fans more time to reach their seats safely.

Broadcast footage from ABC captured Trump waving from a box seat, although the live audio reactions from the crowd were muted during the transmission. The US Open issued a statement confirming that the delay was due to the increased security protocols in place. These measures reflect a broader trend of heightened security at large public events, particularly those attended by high-profile figures.

Reactions to Trump’s Presence

Trump, who has frequently commented on sports issues and policies, continues to be a polarizing figure in the realm of athletics. His administration made headlines with initiatives such as an executive order banning transgender women and girls from competing in female sports categories. Additionally, he has advocated for the Washington Commanders to revert to their previous name, the Redskins.

As the President made his entrance, public reception was decidedly mixed. Outside the stadium, attendees voiced their opinions. Dave, a banker from New York City, expressed skepticism regarding Trump’s attendance, stating, “I couldn’t care less if he comes or not. Who is? He’s a convicted felon.” In contrast, Karen Stark, a retired tennis fan from Michigan, offered a more accepting view: “He can go wherever he wants and attend a match if he wants to.”

Trump’s approval rating hovered around 40 percent in late July and mid-August, raising questions about his reception in largely Democratic New York. This visit marks another occasion where Trump has engaged with major sporting events since taking office in January 2017. His previous appearances include the Super Bowl in February and various Ultimate Fighting Championship bouts.

Security and Public Engagement

As tensions surrounding political figures at public events remain high, the US Open’s decision to enhance security reflects a commitment to ensuring safety for all attendees. This incident underscores the complexities of hosting events that attract both sporting enthusiasts and political figures. The unique blend of sports and politics continues to draw public interest, often transforming athletic venues into stages for broader cultural dialogues.

With the match ultimately delayed yet highly anticipated, the US Open continues to serve as a focal point for both sports fans and political discourse, illustrating the intersection of these two influential spheres.