Trump’s Attendance at the US Open
On Sunday, President Donald Trump is set to make an appearance at the US Open tennis tournament, graciously attending as a guest of luxury watchmaker Rolex. This invitation comes amid recent controversies, particularly after his administration enacted a significant 39% tariff on Swiss imports, casting a shadow over the relationship between the U.S. and Switzerland, now struggling to maintain its competitive edge against the European Union.
Shift in Presidential Engagements
Despite entering the final stretch of his presidency, Trump’s approach to domestic engagements leans heavily towards attending high-profile sporting events rather than holding rallies or making speeches about policy initiatives. His presence at the men’s final, featuring top-seed Jannik Sinner from Italy and his challenger Carlos Alcaraz from Spain, will be from a prominent suite owned by Rolex.
This event takes place shortly after tariffs aimed at Swiss products were enforced, which are significantly more punitive than those applied to European or British goods, leading many to scrutinize the motivations behind Trump’s corporate alliances. Although the White House opted not to comment on Trump’s attendance at the Open, there has been ongoing concern regarding the blending of political interests and personal business ventures. This includes Trump’s ventures into cryptocurrency and promoting his golf properties, with plans to host the upcoming Group of 20 summit in 2026 at his Trump National Doral resort in Florida.
Managing Public Reactions
To minimize potential disruptions during the live broadcast, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) has confirmed that any negative reactions, such as audience members booing Trump, will not be shown on ABC’s coverage. The USTA indicated they actively discourage broadcasters from showcasing such off-court incidents.
A Notable Return
Interestingly, Trump’s attendance marks a notable return to the US Open after a long hiatus since he was met with jeers during a match in 2015. Historically, Trump has been a regular visitor to the event, often seen enjoying matches from his private suite before stepping into the political arena. Before his presidency, he was a well-known figure in New York’s real estate scene and a celebrity athlete enthusiast.
Players’ Perspectives
Alcaraz, the youthful Spanish contender, expressed appreciation for Trump’s presence, labeling it a privilege not just for him but for the sport of tennis overall, albeit recognizing the psychological hurdles it might pose. He mentioned his intention to remain focused and not allow the political atmosphere to distract him from the match.
Mixed Reactions and Historical Context
Recently, Trump has shifted his weekend activities to playing golf at a Virginia club, as summer heat limited his outings in Florida. However, his attendance at various major sporting events throughout the year has consistently stirred mixed reactions from attendees—cheers mingling with boos, reflecting the divided sentiment regarding his presidency. Notably, he is the first sitting president to attend the US Open since Bill Clinton in the year 2000. In contrast, former President Obama and his wife made an appearance during the tournament’s 2023 opening night.
