United States President Donald Trump was booed by many fans during an American football game between the Washington Commanders and the Detroit Lions on Sunday in Washington.
The incident happened at Northwest Stadium when Trump appeared on the big screen during the first half of the match. The crowd reacted with loud boos, though a few people also cheered.
The president had arrived earlier on Air Force One, which flew over the stadium before landing nearby. Speaking to reporters, Trump said, “We’re gonna have a good game. Things are going well. The Democrats have to open up,” referring to the government shutdown currently affecting parts of the country.
During the halftime break, Trump went on the field to read out an oath for new military recruits, but the booing continued from sections of the audience.
Before Trump arrived, Detroit Lions player Amon-Ra St. Brown had celebrated his touchdown by imitating Trump’s hand movements, saying later, “I heard Trump was going to be at the game, so I decided to have some fun.”
Trump later joined sports commentators on Fox TV for a short live chat during the game. He talked about playing football in high school, saying, “I played tight end, but it wasn’t like this level. It was much easier.”
He also mentioned that his government was helping with plans for the Commanders’ new stadium. “They’re going to build a beautiful stadium. I’m helping with the approvals,” Trump said.
Reports from ESPN claimed Trump suggested that the new stadium could be named after him, though many fans did not welcome the idea.
Mark Clouse, the Commanders’ president, said the club appreciated the president’s visit, noting that the game was part of the NFL’s annual “Salute to Service” event, which honors military personnel and their families.
Trump left before the game ended. The Detroit Lions won 44–22 against the Commanders.
This is not the first time Trump has been booed at a sports event. In 2019, he faced a similar reaction during the World Series baseball game in Washington.
According to the NFL, only two other US presidents — Richard Nixon in 1969 and Jimmy Carter in 1978 — have attended a regular-season football game.
