Donald Trump appeared distinctly underwhelmed by Carlos Alcaraz’s US Open triumph in the immediate aftermath of Sunday’s final. The president was in attendance at Flushing Meadows, marking yet another appearance at a major sporting occasion, having recently been spotted at UFC, NASCAR and American football fixtures.
Trump had even positioned himself prominently during Chelsea’s Club World Cup trophy ceremony at MetLife Stadium earlier this summer. Whilst he seemed to relish the football event, he was observed looking decidedly unimpressed at the US Open final as Alcaraz celebrated his victory over opponent Jannik Sinner.
Indeed, Trump failed to join in the pre-match applause for Alcaraz. Trump departed 90 minutes into the match – before some fans had even entered because of the queue chaos outside.
Body language expert Judi James told the Express US: “Trump’s reaction to a very excited and celebratory Alcaraz seems out of step with the rest of the crowd.
“As everyone is clapping and cheering Trump appears to hike his pants from the belt and perform a wry, closed lip, ironic-looking smile and pull at his jacket rather than clap.”
Nevertheless, it appears the sentiment isn’t reciprocated.
Prior to the match, Alcaraz, the eventual victor, voiced his delight at performing before Trump, declaring that his presence was ‘great for tennis’.
Alcaraz said: “For me, playing in front of him… to be honest, I will try not to think about it. I don’t want myself to be nervous because of it.
“But I think attending the tennis match, it’s great for tennis to have the president into the final.”
Trump was also captured on camera with his eyes closed at one stage, appearing utterly exhausted. Before the final, officials took measures to protect the president from any negative response at the event, instructing broadcasters to censor the reaction when he first appeared.
According to Bounces, a USTA email directed ESPN, Sky Sports, and other networks not to broadcast any adverse reactions.
Whilst Trump is not renowned for being a keen Tennis fan, he has enjoyed attending sporting events since becoming the 47th president, including multiple UFC appearances with Dana White.
The president is a huge NFL fan, often spotted in a suite at the Super Bowl and likely to attend games throughout the 2025 season.