President Donald Trump attended a New York Yankees game on Thursday night, marking the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, hours after honouring victims at the Pentagon. The visit, which followed heightened security measures prompted by the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, drew a mixed response from the crowd at Yankee Stadium, with some fans booing and others cheering during the National Anthem when Trump appeared on the jumbotron.

Security was stringent, with metal detectors, Secret Service agents, and NYPD helicopters ensuring safety. Authorities installed protective glass around Trump’s upper-level suite near the third-base line, and gates opened three hours early to manage crowds. The stadium played “God Bless the USA”, Trump’s unofficial campaign anthem, to minimal reaction, while “USA!” chants reflected the solemnity of the 9/11 commemoration rather than his presence. The Yankees continued their tradition of singing “God Bless America” during the seventh-inning stretch, alongside a pre-game moment of silence.

Trump visited the Yankees’ clubhouse before the game, shaking hands with players and reminiscing about his friendship with late owner George Steinbrenner. He predicted a Yankees victory, despite their recent losses to the Detroit Tigers, who won the series’ first two games. Manager Aaron Boone noted left fielder Anthony Volpe’s resilience, playing through a partial labrum tear, as Trump offered encouragement. The president’s appearance echoed President George W. Bush’s symbolic first pitch at the 2001 World Series, a moment of national unity post-9/11.

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The visit, Trump’s eighth major sporting event since returning to the White House in January, highlighted ongoing security challenges at public events. Long lines, seen recently at the US Open, underscored the logistical demands of presidential appearances. Flags at the stadium were lowered to half-staff in honour of Kirk, with the Yankees holding a moment of silence for him before Wednesday’s game, reflecting the sombre context of Trump’s attendance.

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