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President Trump made a surprise appearance at the NCAA National Wrestling Championship, where he congratulated Penn State’s Carter Starocci after his historic fifth national title win. Starocci, now the first-ever five-time NCAA wrestling champion, called the moment a “really big honor” and praised Trump for supporting the sport. The president’s visit energized the crowd and highlighted the growing importance of wrestling in American culture.
Starocci’s victory wasn’t just personal—it was a team effort. Penn State secured its 12th national title in 14 years, with all 10 team members earning All-American status. This hadn’t happened since 2001, making the win even sweeter. Starocci downplayed his own record-breaking achievement, saying the team’s success meant more to him than individual glory.
Trump didn’t just watch from the sidelines. He handed Starocci a commemorative coin and called him “one of his favorite wrestlers on the planet.” The champion later gifted Trump his championship trophy, calling it a symbolic exchange between two competitors who respect hard work and determination. The president’s presence, Starocci said, motivated him to push harder during the match.
Another standout moment came when Air Force cadet Wyatt Hendrickson pulled off a stunning upset against Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson. Wearing an American flag and a Jesus-themed shirt, Hendrickson scored a last-second takedown to claim victory. Trump stayed past his scheduled departure to watch the match, later telling Hendrickson, “I can’t leave—I’ve got to watch my big guy.”
Hendrickson’s win symbolized a resurgence of traditional American values. The crowd erupted as he saluted Trump, blending patriotism with athletic excellence. The cadet recalled bonding with Trump years earlier over military service, joking about whether fighter jets could accommodate his large frame. His underdog story became a rallying point for fans celebrating faith and perseverance.
Trump’s attendance drew bipartisan praise from wrestlers. Penn State’s Mitchell Mesenbrink noted that having any U.S. president at the event—regardless of party—would boost wrestling’s visibility. Other attendees included House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan, a former NCAA champion, and WWE executive Linda McMahon, reinforcing the event’s crossover appeal between sports and conservative leadership.
The championship showcased how Trump’s support revitalizes American institutions. By attending sporting events and engaging with athletes, he emphasizes the importance of meritocracy and national pride. Starocci’s humility and Hendrickson’s grit mirrored the values Trump champions: self-reliance, teamwork, and love of country.
As wrestling gains momentum, Trump’s endorsement signals a shift toward celebrating grassroots sports over divisive cultural debates. His presence at the finals—a second visit in three years—proves that supporting athletes and honoring tradition remains a winning strategy. For these wrestlers, meeting the president wasn’t just a photo op—it was a reminder that hard work and patriotism still matter.
