Trump and Musk Ignite Crowd at Philadelphia NCAA Wrestling Finals
Trump Greeted with Cheers at NCAA Wrestling Championships in Philadelphia
By Max Winters
Published: 23 March 2025
Former President Donald Trump received a raucous reception Saturday night as he attended the NCAA wrestling championships in Philadelphia, flanked by a high-profile entourage including Elon Musk and GOP lawmakers. The crowd at Wells Fargo Arena erupted in chants of “USA!” as Trump arrived during ESPN’s live broadcast, briefly interrupting an athlete interview.
A Star-Studded Entrance
Trump waved to fans and shook hands with attendees upon entering the arena, where he joined Senator Dave McCormick, his wife Dina Powell, and Rep. Jim Jordan—a former NCAA wrestling champion—in VIP seating. Elon Musk, Outkick founder Clay Travis, and Trump’s chief of staff Susie Wiles also accompanied him.
[IMAGE: Trump shaking hands with fans amid a standing ovation. Caption: “Trump greeted supporters as chants of ‘USA!’ filled the arena.”]
The visit marked Trump’s second appearance at the event in three years, underscoring his ongoing ties to sports culture. Earlier, he landed at Philadelphia International Airport aboard Air Force One, greeted by Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin and his wife Christie.
Sports as a Political Stage
Trump’s attendance aligns with his strategy of leveraging sports events to connect with supporters. “I’ve always supported the wrestlers,” he told reporters before departing the White House. “These are the great college wrestlers from various schools.”
[IMAGE: Trump, Musk, and Jordan seated ringside. Caption: “Trump’s entourage included Elon Musk and Rep. Jim Jordan.”]
His recent itinerary has prioritized sporting events over policy tours, including appearances at the Super Bowl, Daytona 500, and a UFC fight. However, Trump has also made policy waves, signing an executive order to bar transgender athletes from women’s sports—a move popular among his base.
Wrestling’s Political Tie-In
The championships featured Penn State vying for its fourth consecutive team title, drawing a politically charged audience. While some attendees booed Trump, cheers dominated, reflecting his enduring appeal in conservative circles.
[IMAGE: Secret Service agents outside the arena. Caption: “Heightened security accompanied Trump’s surprise appearance.”]
Trump’s sports-centric travels contrast with his limited official duties since his 2025 inauguration, though he has addressed disasters like Hurricane Helene and wildfires in California. Critics argue these appearances prioritize spectacle over governance, while supporters laud his accessibility.
[IMAGE: Trump’s motorcade arriving in Philadelphia. Caption: “The former president’s visit highlighted his bond with athletic communities.”]
As the night unfolded, Trump’s presence underscored the intersection of politics and sports—a arena where he continues to command both admiration and controversy.
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