Kyle Kuzma has always commanded attention wherever he goes. He helped the Lakers win the 2020 championship, took on a larger role in Washington, and now suits up for the Milwaukee Bucks in their pursuit of another title. Milwaukee traded for him earlier this year to give Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard another key weapon. Away from the court, Kuzma has built a strong reputation for his bold presence on social media, where his opinions often create more headlines than his performances.
Kyle Kuzma catches President Donald Trump giving him the thumbs up. 😭
[via. @kylekuzma ] pic.twitter.com/UywdgM9VCO
— BASKETBALL ON 𝕏 (@BASKETBALLonX) September 8, 2025
During the US Open men’s final, Kuzma posted an Instagram story featuring a short clip of Donald Trump flashing a thumbs-up and smiling from his suite at Arthur Ashe Stadium. He added a string of laughing emojis, hinting that he found the moment amusing rather than serious. The post did not gain much traction, partly because it was drowned out by the broader controversy tied to Trump’s appearance at the tournament.
Apr 1, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma (18) warms up before game against the Phoenix Suns at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
Trump’s return to the US Open for the first time since 2015 turned into one of the tournament’s most chaotic storylines. His arrival triggered a lengthy delay of nearly 30 minutes in the men’s final between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz as security tightened around the venue. Even after he took his seat, the tension didn’t ease. The crowd erupted in boos when his image flashed on the jumbotron during the national anthem, nearly overwhelming the singer’s voice.
Kyle Kuzma and Donald Trump in the US Open
Sep 7, 2025; Flushing, NY, USA; President Donald Trump in attendance during the final of mens singles at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
The divided crowd kept reacting as the match went on. Every time Trump appeared on the big screen, a wave of boos mixed with scattered cheers filled the stadium. Midway through the contest, he and his entourage briefly left while Alcaraz held a 3-0 lead in the third set, before making their way back later on.
Journalist Ben Rothenberg reported on social media that Trump and most of his entourage walked out after only 90 minutes. The brief departure stirred further speculation during an already charged evening. By the time Alcaraz lifted the trophy, Trump remained seated and did not participate in the celebration.
Sep 7, 2025; Flushing, NY, USA; President Donald Trump looks on during the final of mens singles at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Unlike his previous high-profile appearances at major sporting events, where he soaked up the attention, this one felt more low-key. He did not hand over the trophy and attracted online attention for failing to applaud Alcaraz’s victory. In the end, Trump’s polarizing presence almost overshadowed the match, while NBA star Kyle Kuzma’s brief thumbs-up moment quietly went largely unnoticed.