President Donald Trump attended Sunday’s Washington Commanders game, becoming the first sitting president in nearly 50 years to watch a regular-season NFL match. The Commanders lost 44-22 to the visiting Detroit Lions in Landover, Maryland.
Trump’s appearance drew loud boos from some fans when he appeared on the videoboard late in the first half. The reaction continued during his halftime introduction and as he led a military oath ceremony on the field. He shared the suite with House Speaker Mike Johnson while attending the game.
Upon arrival, Trump told reporters, “We’re gonna have a good game. Things are going along very well. The country’s doing well. The Democrats have to open it up,” referring to the ongoing government shutdown.
Before Trump arrived, Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown celebrated a touchdown with the “Trump dance,” a playful gesture some athletes began last year. St. Brown said he performed the move for fun, noting he wasn’t sure how many more times Trump might attend games.
Lions coach Dan Campbell said he was focused on the game itself and did not immediately notice Trump’s presence. Quarterback Jared Goff commented on the low flyover of Trump’s plane above the stadium, describing it as “awesome.”
During the third quarter, Trump joined Fox broadcasters Kenny Albert and Jonathan Vilma for a brief chat. He reflected on his high school football days at New York Military Academy, recalling, “I played tight end, but it was not quite football like this. It was a little bit easier. It wasn’t so tough.”
Trump left before the game concluded, continuing a pattern of attending major sporting events. He has appeared at the U.S. Open, the Ryder Cup, the Daytona 500, and a Super Bowl, where he watched the Philadelphia Eagles defeat the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 while in office.
The president also discussed the Commanders’ future stadium plans during his TV appearance, saying, “They’re going to build a beautiful stadium. That’s what I’m involved in, we’re getting all the approvals and everything else. And you have a wonderful owner, Josh (Harris) and his group. You’re going to see some very good things.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, along with White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Education Secretary Linda McMahon, and Republican Senator Steve Daines of Montana, were among those attending the game with Trump. Hegseth also participated in a military ceremony on the field.
Trump’s relationship with the NFL has been tense during his presidency, particularly over player protests during the national anthem. The movement began in 2016 with then-49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Trump has publicly demanded that players stand during the anthem and has called on team owners to discipline those who kneel.
Only two other sitting presidents attended regular-season NFL games: Richard Nixon in 1969 and Jimmy Carter in 1978. Trump’s visit to the Commanders marks another high-profile sporting appearance, emphasizing his ongoing interest in sports as part of public engagement.
Sunday’s game reflected a mix of fan reactions, media attention, and ceremonial duties. While some cheered the president, others expressed disapproval, highlighting the political divide that continues to follow Trump’s public appearances.
