Trump’s Return to US Open After a Decade Met With Boos and Backlash

Sports stadiums are usually about the players - not politicians. On 7th September 2025, when the US Open Men's Final was played in New York, however, it was not only about Carlos Alcaraz vs Jannik Sinner. Near enough all the chatter was focused on Donald Trump, the former US President, who had been at this event after nearly 10 years.

What happened?  Once Trump went up on the giant screen, the atmosphere of an already charged Arthur Ashe stadium changed. There were loud boos, a few cheers, and then division in the crowd. For many it was a reminder that Trump is a deeply polarising figure in America.

This became international news because it wasn't just about sport - it was about politics, the public mood, and the fuzzy boundaries between celebrity culture and serious tennis championship.

Why Trump’s Presence At US Open Was Big News

He last visited the US Open in 2015, prior to entering the White House. At that time, there were loud boos as well.

In 2025, after a 10 year absence, his return was a big deal.

The US Open considered New York's best annual sporting event, and Trump is from New York and the audience here usually mirrors the liberal and loud culture of the city.

With Trump attending, security was increased which delayed the match by close to 30 minutes, and when the fans were forced to wait in long lines outside him in humid conditions, many were sour before they even walked in. 

The Crowd Reaction: Boos, Cheers And Divided Mood

When it came time for Trump to be shown on the Jumbotron during the national anthem, he reaction was instantaneous.

Booing was loud and filled the arena.

Some cheering was also heard, particularly from sections that were pro-Trump.

On television, many viewers commented that the broadcast did not go show that, and some reports that appeared later indicated that the USTA (United States Tennis Association) instructed broadcast affiliates to not show any interruptions or political statements.

The booing and cheering is emblematic of how divided America is right now.

Why the Boos?

Political Divide – New York crowds lean anti-Trump.

Security Delays – Fans were already frustrated with long lines and late start.

Old History – In 2015, he was also booed. Many fans see it as tradition now.

Recent Controversies – His legal battles and political comeback efforts keep him in headlines, often negatively.

The Backlash Beyond the Stadium

Following the match, social media exploded:

On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags like #TrumpBooed and #USOpenFinal started trending.

Though there were memes of the sound from the crowd.

Some Trump supporters claimed the boos were “fake,” only shown in “biased media."

Others flagged a debate over whether the broadcasters muted or covered it up.

Donald Trump drowned in boos at the US Open—a humiliating reminder that Americans reject his toxic presence, loudly and in public.

👉 Follow me if you want the truth.#Trump pic.twitter.com/o2DO0f7Xgv

— Amanda (@woowstyles) September 7, 2025

The Match Itself (Important Tennis Context)

While politics stole some spotlight, the tennis was historic:

Carlos Alcaraz defeated Jannik Sinner in four sets (6–2, 3–6, 6–1, 6–4).

With this, Alcaraz reclaimed the World No. 1 ranking.

The match was delayed due to Trump’s presence, but still delivered high quality tennis.

Quick Facts of Trump At US Open 2025

Human Touch – How It Felt Inside

Picture being in the experience as an average tennis fan:

You purchase an expensive ticket, waiting in line for almost an hour in sticky New York heat.

You finally take your seat, waiting for Alcaraz, Sinner.

Suddenly, the big screen shows Trump. People start whistling, shouting, clapping, booing. You realise: this isn't just a tennis match, this is America in 2025 - divided, loud and emotional.

Political Angle: Why This Matters Beyond Sports

Trump is once again in for the White House.

Every public appearance is a popularity test.

The boos at the US Open remember New York is not his territory anymore.

For opponents, it is evidence that “Trump is unwanted.”

For supporters, even a few cheers in a hostile environment is an indication that he still has fans everywhere.

History Repeats – Trump’s Relation with Sports

1980s: Trump was highly engaged with the USFL (an opposition American football league).
2000s: He was a fixture at boxing, tennis and golfing events. 
2015 US Open: Attended during his presidential campaign; booed. 
2025 US Open: Same reaction; his controversial status is unchanged.