Trump Visit Delays US Open Final by 30 Minutes

Trump Security Delays US Open Final by 30 Minutes

The 2025 US Open men’s final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner was delayed by 30 minutes due to heightened security measures triggered by the presence of President Donald Trump at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.

Originally scheduled for a 14:00 local time start, the match was pushed back to 14:50 as thousands of fans were caught in long queues, filtered through airport-style scanners installed overnight at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

Why the Delay?

Organisers issued a statement explaining the delay:

“As a result of the security measures in place, and to ensure that fans have additional time to get to their seats, we have pushed the start time.”

However, many fans expressed frustration at not being warned in advance. Several told BBC Sport they had received no notifications about the tightened security protocols or expected delays.

Trump Appearance Divides Crowd

Trump made his appearance at 13:45, briefly emerging from a hospitality suite in the lower tier. He acknowledged the crowd with raised arms and received a mixed reaction—applause in some areas and jeers in others.

Organisers had requested broadcasters to avoid highlighting any negative crowd responses during the final.

Empty Seats and Crowd Backlog

Despite the match starting, the upper tiers remained visibly empty, with spectators still trying to pass through extensive security checks.

Fans had to:

• Empty pockets into trays

• Walk through full-body scanners

• Undergo additional searches if alarms were triggered

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova voiced her disappointment on Sky Sports:

“Let’s spare a thought for the thousands of people waiting outside in the drizzle—and they’ve paid thousands for these tickets. It’s not that he’s coming that’s the problem, it’s that they only made one entrance for the whole crowd.”

Public Reaction & Debate

The situation has sparked a debate on balancing high-profile security with the fan experience at sporting events. While it’s common for heads of state to attend major finals, rarely have logistics disrupted play to such an extent.

Context

• Trump had not attended the US Open since 2015

• This was his first public visit to Flushing Meadows as president

• The 2025 US Open Final was one of the most anticipated matches of the year, featuring World No. 1 Alcaraz against rising rival Sinner

What’s Next?

Despite the delay, the match delivered thrilling action once play began. We’ll have full post-match analysis, player quotes, and final results shortly.