President Donald Trump made a dramatic entrance at the U.S. Open final on Sunday, facing a chorus of cheers and boos. His arrival, however, coincided with a tense atmosphere as the stadium was largely empty and match start times were pushed back due to heightened security measures.

Caught on camera by ABC, Trump waved to the sparse crowd from his box seat, though the broadcast notably excluded any audio of the audience's response. Reports indicated that the United States Tennis Association (USTA) instructed broadcasters to limit visuals of off-court disturbances.

Originally slated to kick off at 2 p.m. ET, the match featuring tennis stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner was postponed by 30 minutes, allowing spectators more time to get through security checks, confirmed tournament organizers.

As a prominent figure in the sports world, Trump's presence has long stirred controversy. Just weeks after his inauguration, he attempted to impose a ban on transgender women in female sports, igniting a fierce debate over fairness and rights.

Earlier this summer, he also pressured the Washington Commanders to revert to their former name, the Redskins, which many deem offensive. According to recent polls, Trump's approval rating stood at a lowly 40%, reflecting a challenging political landscape, especially in Democratic-heavy New York.

Outside Arthur Ashe Stadium—renowned for being the world's largest tennis venue—Secret Service agents and federal officers conducted thorough security checks, creating a palpable tension among attendees.

Opinions among tennis fans were sharply divided. One New York banker, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed disdain for Trump’s presence, labeling him a "convicted felon" and stating his indifference toward the visit. Conversely, Karen Stark, a retired fan who traveled from Michigan, supported Trump’s right to attend the match. 'He can go wherever he wants,' she remarked.

As Trump continues to navigate the intersection of sports and politics, his presence at major events—like his previous appearances at the Super Bowl and UFC fights—ensures that he remains a polarizing figure in American culture.