Trump’s U.S. Open Visit Delays Final, Fans Face Long Security Lines

The U.S. Open men’s championship match in New York faced a delayed start on Sunday as President Donald Trump’s attendance led to heightened security checks. Fans waited in long lines outside Arthur Ashe Stadium, some for more than an hour, causing thousands of empty seats when play began between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. The 24,000-seat venue saw entrances slowed by Secret Service screenings, bag checks, and metal detectors.

Originally scheduled for 2 p.m. EDT, the final began around 2:30 p.m. Organizers acknowledged the disruption, saying they had alerted ticket holders in advance about potential delays and encouraged early arrival. A USTA spokesperson explained that the enhanced protocols were mandated by the Secret Service, not the tournament itself.

Many attendees voiced frustration. A Brooklyn resident blamed Trump for the holdup, calling it “selfish,” while New Yorker Maribeth Lodes said waiting more than 90 minutes after paying $350 for her ticket was “unreasonable.” Others were more accepting, with one fan noting the former president “can go wherever he wants.”

Inside the stadium, Trump was greeted with a mix of cheers and boos when shown on screen. Broadcasters limited crowd reactions, though cheers and jeers were audible during ESPN’s feed. The Secret Service later thanked fans for their patience, noting security is standard whenever the president attends public events.

By the second set, most fans had reached their seats, and Alcaraz went on to defeat Sinner in four sets. After the match, Trump praised both players’ “unbelievable talent” and said he enjoyed the atmosphere. Ticket resale prices for the final had ranged from hundreds to over $20,000, underscoring the high-profile nature of the event.