New York, Sept 7, 2025 — In a moment that stole the spotlight from the court, President Donald Trump was seen saluting the American flag during the national anthem at the U.S. Open men’s final.
The gesture, captured on camera and now circulating widely online, sparked cheers, debate, and a wave of social media reactions — making Trump just as headline-worthy as the match itself.
Why Did Trump Salute Instead of Placing His Hand Over His Heart?
As the Star-Spangled Banner played at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Trump stood tall and raised his hand in a military-style salute — a move typically reserved for veterans or active service members.
While some spectators erupted in applause, others questioned the protocol, noting that civilians traditionally place their hands over their hearts.
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What Happened at the U.S. Open Final?
Trump’s appearance delayed the match between top-seeded Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz by nearly 30 minutes due to heightened security.
He watched from Rolex’s luxury suite, having accepted an invitation from the Swiss watchmaker — despite recently imposing steep tariffs on Swiss imports.
The U.S. Tennis Association reportedly asked broadcasters not to show crowd reactions to Trump’s presence, but the viral salute video quickly made its way to platforms like X and YouTube. For example.
Why This Moment Matters
Trump’s salute wasn’t just symbolic — it was strategic. As he continues to build his second-term narrative around patriotism and public appearances at major sporting events, moments like these reinforce his brand.
