Trump’s Visit Triggers Delay at Arthur Ashe Stadium
NEW YORK — The highly anticipated U.S. Open men’s singles final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner was overshadowed by a political flashpoint when President Donald Trump arrived at Arthur Ashe Stadium on September 7, 2025, causing a ripple of frustration among spectators. The match, originally slated to begin at 2 p.m. EDT, was delayed by approximately 30 minutes as enhanced security protocols took effect—prompting organizers to push back the start to 2:30 p.m.
Fans Confront Long Queues and Miss Opening Moments
Thronged entrances swelled under the weight of heightened screening procedures. Secret Service agents, alongside federal law enforcement, enforced rigorous checks that left attendees waiting in long lines—some for well over an hour—just to reach their seats in the nearly 24,000-seat stadium.evin, a Brooklyn–based private equity professional, voiced the exasperation of many in the crowd: “One hundred percent him. Very selfish. … especially in a city that hates him,” he said, laying the blame squarely on Trump’s visit.
Mixed Reception: Boos, Cheers, and Unseen Reactions
Once inside, spectators reacted in kind when Trump appeared on the big screen. The stadium erupted in a mixture of boos and scattered cheers. Organizers had asked broadcasters to censor any such off-court disruptions, resulting in network feeds with noticeably muted crowd audio.Reporters on site confirmed that the on-court reveal of Trump triggered immediate vocal backlash from fans, underscoring the politically charged atmosphere of the event.
Behind the Scenes: USTA’s Attempt at Neutrality
The United States Tennis Association (USTA), responsible for organizing the tournament, attempted to alleviate the impact. They had sent messages urging ticket holders to arrive early and to use public transit, in hopes of offsetting the delays.In a statement, a spokesperson acknowledged the disruption: “We recognize that enhanced security for the President’s visit … may have contributed to delays … We sincerely thank every fan for their patience and understanding.”
Players Eye Showdown Amid Off-Court Tensions
Despite the tension off the court, the tennis match itself delivered. Carlos Alcaraz ultimately prevailed over Jannik Sinner, showcasing a compelling blend of power, creativity, and refined shot-making that earned him a fourth Grand Slam title of 2025—and the top spot in the world rankings.The game served as a reminder that, even amid distractions, the athletes retained the spotlight.
Polarized Reactions Mirror Broader National Divide
Reactions from attendees were split. Karen Stark, a retiree from Michigan, offered a more neutral take: “He can go wherever he wants and attend a match if he wants to.” The divergence of fan sentiment mirrors Trump’s broader political standing—his approval rating lingered at 40% in late July and August, among the lowest of his presidency.
This episode highlighted the complex intersection of politics and sport. While Trump’s presence added a layer of high-profile drama, it also ignited frustration among fans seeking a seamless sporting experience.
