The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has asked broadcasters of the U.S. Open to avoid airing any protests or audience reactions to former President Donald Trump’s attendance at Sunday’s men’s singles final, according to a memo reviewed by The Athletic.
First reported by tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg of Bounces, the memo notes that Trump will be shown during the pre-match ceremony, which includes the national anthem, ahead of the championship match between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
“We ask all broadcasters to refrain from showcasing any disruptions or reactions in response to the President’s attendance in any capacity,” the USTA said in the memo. Trump is expected to watch the match from a sponsor’s suite, which has led to additional security measures.
USTA spokesman Brendan McIntyre said the request is consistent with the association’s practice: “We regularly ask our broadcasters to refrain from showcasing off-court disruptions.”
ESPN, which will air the match, declined official comment. However, a person familiar with the network’s plans said ESPN will acknowledge Trump’s presence as it would for other high-profile attendees, while maintaining its focus on the match itself.
Trump was booed during his last U.S. Open appearance in 2015, when he was a presidential candidate attending a quarterfinal match between Venus and Serena Williams. Before entering politics, he was a fixture at the tournament, holding a suite at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center for nearly two decades before relinquishing it in 2017 during his presidency.