Latest news:Penn State wrestlers speak out on Trump’s attendance at NCAA championships…Read more
President Donald Trump’s attendance at the 2025 NCAA Men’s Division I Wrestling Championship in Philadelphia garnered enthusiastic responses from both the crowd and participating athletes. As he entered the Wells Fargo Arena, spectators rose to their feet, applauding and chanting “U-S-A.” ESPN even interrupted an interview with national champion Carter Starocci to broadcast the president’s entrance.
Trump’s presence was particularly significant for wrestling stars like Minnesota’s Gable Steveson and Penn State’s Carter Starocci. Steveson expressed his excitement prior to the event, stating, “We’re going to put on a good show for him. Him showing up Saturday night, he’s coming to watch some of the best wrestling on earth, and we’re going to give that to him.” Similarly, Starocci, who made history by becoming the first five-time Division I national champion, looked forward to Trump’s attendance. Reflecting on a previous encounter, he remarked, “He came to nationals my sophomore year and it was … .”
Trump’s engagement with the wrestling community extends beyond this championship. In October 2024, during a campaign rally at Penn State University’s Bryce Jordan Center, he invited the national champion wrestling team on stage, praising their achievements and expressing admiration for their winning spirit. Addressing the crowd, Trump said, “I really respect winners. So do you. We’d like to have a couple of them leading our country, wouldn’t that be nice?”
The mutual respect between Trump and the wrestling community underscores the sport’s prominence and the athletes’ appreciation for recognition from high-profile figures. Such interactions highlight the positive impact of presidential attention on collegiate wrestling, fostering greater visibility and support for the s
port.
