Why the USTA’s Censorship of Trump Dissent at the US Open is Un-American and Hypocritical | Bryan Armen Graham

When the U.S. Open wraps up, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) will boast about impressive attendance numbers, rising food sales, and a celebrity-filled atmosphere. Yet, this year’s event will be remembered for something quite different: the USTA’s choice to mute dissent against Donald Trump during broadcasts.

Internal emails revealed that the USTA advised broadcasters not to highlight any reactions, like booing, when Trump appeared on-screen. This move raises eyebrows because the tournament has historically embraced chaos, showcasing protests and lively crowd reactions.

Crowd reactions aren’t signs of disorder; they reflect democracy in action. For example, UK Home Secretary Theresa May faced boos at the 2012 Paralympics, and French President Emmanuel Macron was whistled during the Rugby World Cup. Even in the U.S., sports figures like NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell are often met with jeers. Sports events have survived such moments without issues, so why shield Trump from similar reactions?

The USTA’s decision seems to imply a need to protect a political figure from public sentiment, echoing tactics seen in more authoritarian regimes. This approach dampens the spirit of the Open, an event that has historically stood for progress and inclusion, such as being the first major to award equal prize money to men and women.

This year’s theme, “75 Years of Breaking Barriers,” pays tribute to Althea Gibson, the first Black player to compete in the tournament’s predecessor. The USTA has long championed diversity, making this decision feel even more contradictory. It not only shields Trump but also undermines the authenticity that makes the U.S. Open unique.

Ultimately, fans will express their feelings, whether it’s cheering or booing. By trying to control this narrative, the USTA reduces the tournament to a staged event, contradicting the very essence of sportsmanship. For an organization that prides itself on honesty, this move is puzzling.



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