Martina Navratilova criticised the half-hour delay to the US Open men’s singles final on Sunday, describing the disruption caused by President Donald Trump’s arrival as “insane.”

The final between defending champion Jannik Sinner and Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz was pushed back after enhanced security measures left long queues of spectators outside Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Many fans, who had paid thousands of dollars for tickets, were still stranded as the players eventually walked on court at 2:37pm local time.

Trump, attending the tournament for the first time since 2015, flew into New York earlier in the day on Air Force One.

Martina Navratilova criticised the half-hour delay to the US Open men’s singles final on Sunday, describing the disruption caused by President Donald Trump’s arrival as “insane.

Roads around the Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre were closed to accommodate his motorcade, while access to Arthur Ashe Stadium was reduced to a single entrance for screening.

Speaking on Sky Sports Tennis, Navratilova said the situation was unfair on both players and fans.

“I don’t know whose idea it was [to enter like this], but it’s insane,” said the 68-year-old, a four-time US Open singles champion.

“It is a delay that they’ve never had, because all the venues now have a roof.

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"They really need to time it just right, to eat just right, to warm up. Both are in the same boat, but it’s really unfortunate.

"Let’s spare a thought for the thousands of people waiting outside, in the drizzle. It’s been raining and they’ve paid thousands of dollars for these tickets. It’s more than half-empty still.”

By the time Sinner and Alcaraz began their warm-ups, thousands of seats inside the 24,000-capacity stadium remained unoccupied, with spectators still moving through the checkpoints.

Trump, who was seen waving from a private suite shortly before the start of play, has a long association with the US Open.

The first time the stadium was half empty due to ppl stuck outside bc security. Here is the view while players were warming up, after the anthem. Yes, the crowd is chanting “let us in” #USOpen https://t.co/b7gK4eDlh5 pic.twitter.com/HAN036Jk1i

— Adam Steinberger (@adamsteinberger) September 7, 2025

He was a frequent attendee during his business career but had not returned since 2015, when he was booed by sections of the New York crowd just months after announcing his presidential campaign.

His reappearance came with added scrutiny.

In advance of the final, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) instructed broadcasters not to highlight any negative reactions to his presence.

“Refrain from showcasing any disruptions or reactions in response to the President’s attendance in any capacity,” read an email circulated to television partners including ESPN and Sky Sports.

Security was tightened to levels rarely seen at Flushing Meadows, with TSA-style checks introduced for all fans entering the arena.

The measures, while routine for presidential appearances, created significant bottlenecks around the venue.

Navratilova’s comments echoed frustration felt by many spectators who had faced long delays in poor weather.

Donald Trump appeared in good spirits as he attended the US Open final on Sunday | GETTY

Trump, meanwhile, got a mixed reception.

Some fans cheered the US President when his face appeared on the screen.

Others, however, opted to boo instead.