Laura Robson risked a backlash from US Open organisers after openly acknowledging the boos aimed at President Donald Trump during the men’s singles final in New York.
The former British No 1, working as a pundit for Sky Sports, went against clear instructions issued to broadcasters by the United States Tennis Association (USTA).
Ahead of Sunday’s showpiece between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, media were told: “We ask all broadcasters to refrain from showing any disruptions or reactions in response to the president’s attendance in any capacity.”
Trump’s presence created significant logistical challenges.
Laura Robson risked a backlash from US Open organisers after openly acknowledging the boos aimed at President Donald Trump during the men’s singles final in New York
|GETTY
His arrival required airport-style checks at Arthur Ashe Stadium, with more than 22,000 spectators funnelled through security gates.
The queues caused long delays and forced organisers to push the start of the match back by half an hour.
When Trump was shown on the big screen during the national anthem, the reaction was mixed. After the first set, however, he was greeted with loud jeers from the New York crowd.
Despite the USTA directive, Robson highlighted the moment live on air.
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“They’ve just shown Trump on the big screen, lots of boos,” she told viewers.
The decision may draw scrutiny, with organisers keen to avoid amplifying political flashpoints at one of tennis’s biggest global events.
Robson was not the only figure to voice frustration at events surrounding Trump’s appearance.
Martina Navratilova, a four-time US Open champion, branded the situation “insane.”
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Donald Trump attended the US Open final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner on Sunday | GETTYSpeaking live on air, she said: “For the final to be postponed because of this is absolutely insane.
"People have paid thousands of dollars for these tickets. It was half empty at the start, normally this place would be rocking.”
On court, the final lived up to expectations.
Alcaraz delivered a near-faultless performance to defeat Sinner 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4, reclaiming the world No 1 ranking and collecting his sixth Grand Slam title in the process.
It was his second triumph in New York and came with a $5million winner’s cheque.
The match was the latest chapter in a rivalry that has defined 2025.
In May, Alcaraz produced a historic comeback from two sets down to beat Sinner in the French Open final.
At Wimbledon in July, Sinner struck back to claim his first major on grass.
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Carlos Alcaraz is now a two-time US Open champion following his victory over Jannik Sinner in New York | GETTYTheir US Open showdown was the third consecutive Grand Slam final between the two, and it ended with honours even for the year: two major titles apiece.
Alcaraz paid tribute to his opponent after lifting the trophy.
“I want to start with Jannik,” he said.
“It’s unbelievable what you have done in the whole season. I see you more than my family! It’s great to share everything with you and watch you improve, working hard every day. Congratulations to you.”