Wyatt Hendrickson Shocks Olympic Champion Gable Steveson to Capture National Wrestling Title, Celebrates with President Trump!

Wyatt Hendrickson recently made headlines by pulling off what many are calling the biggest upset in NCAA wrestling history. Competing at the 2025 NCAA championships in Philadelphia, Hendrickson faced Olympic champion Gable Steveson. The match turned out to be a thriller.

Hendrickson was trailing 4-2 when he pulled off an unexpected takedown in the last moments. This move scored him points, and in a stunning twist, he clinched the victory with a 5-4 finish. This takedown marked the only time Steveson was taken down all season, a testament to Hendrickson’s incredible skill and determination.

When the final whistle blew, the arena erupted. Hendrickson collapsed in disbelief while his coaches celebrated around him. In the stands, President Donald Trump was present, and after the match, Hendrickson shared that special moment with him, wrapped in an American flag.

"It’s bigger than worlds, Olympics, anything," Hendrickson said, overwhelmed with emotion. His victory is especially significant since Steveson came into this final with a 70-match winning streak and was expected to secure another title.

Interestingly, Hendrickson also had an unbeaten record leading into the final match. He managed to stay calm and execute a successful takedown just 20 seconds before the end. Reflecting on that moment, he said, "I made up my mind. If he did stand up, I didn’t want to lock my hands. I was squeezing." His confidence and focus helped him hold onto the lead until the end.

This match isn’t just a personal victory for Hendrickson; it signifies a turning point in wrestling. It brings to mind other notable upsets in sports history, where the underdog triumphs against all odds. For instance, in 1980, the U.S. ice hockey team shocked the world by defeating the seemingly invincible Soviet Union, a match often referred to as the "Miracle on Ice."

The social media buzz following Hendrickson’s win was immense, with fans pouring in praise and disbelief on platforms like X and Twitter. Sports analysts highlighted this match as a defining moment for college wrestling, emphasizing the unpredictability and excitement of the sport.

Furthermore, this victory is part of a growing trend where collegiate athletes are stepping up and challenging seasoned competitors. These matches are not just about individual glory but also inspire a new generation of wrestlers and athletes alike.

On the same day, Oklahoma State had another highlight; Dean Hamiti Jr. also pulled off a significant upset by defeating two-time national champion Keegan O’Toole in the 174-pound title match. Meanwhile, Penn State’s Carter Starocci secured his fifth national title, showcasing the depth of talent present in collegiate wrestling today.

Events like these remind us of the thrill of sports and how it can bring surprise and joy, revealing the true spirit of competition. For more on the history of college wrestling and its evolution, you can explore this NCAA history overview.

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