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Trump Attends U.S. Open Final as Rolex Guest, With Delay and TV Limits on Crowd Reaction

A sitting president seldom appears at the tournament, intensifying scrutiny of how organizers manage optics and operations.

Overview

  • President Donald Trump watched the men’s final at Arthur Ashe Stadium from Rolex’s suite weeks after his administration imposed a 39% tariff on Swiss products.
  • The USTA told broadcasters Trump would be shown during the anthem but asked networks to avoid airing off‑court disruptions or crowd reactions, a practice it says is routine.
  • ABC/ESPN coverage appeared to suppress audible reactions during his appearance, with reports noting music or muted crowd audio rather than boos or cheers.
  • Security protocols, including TSA‑style screening and a heavy Secret Service presence, led the USTA to delay the start by about 30 minutes and slowed entry for fans.
  • In‑stadium responses were described as a mix of boos and cheers when Trump waved from the suite, while separate reports of chemical or nerve‑agent sweeps relied on unnamed sources and lack official confirmation.