Wrestler’s Powerful Salute to Donald Trump After Historic NCAA Championship Upset

Wyatt Hendrickson Shocks the Wrestling World with a Major NCAA Victory and a Patriotic Tribute to Donald Trump

In a moment that electrified the crowd at the NCAA Wrestling Championships, Oklahoma State heavyweight Wyatt Hendrickson pulled off one of the biggest upsets in college wrestling history—and followed it up with a tribute that made headlines.

After defeating Olympic gold medalist and reigning NCAA champion Gable Steveson in a dramatic last-minute showdown, Hendrickson, a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force, made a profound gesture. Draped in an American flag, he turned toward former President Donald Trump, stood at attention, and delivered a salute.

Wyatt Hendrickson — a second lieutenant in the @usairforce — salutes President Donald J. Trump after winning an @NCAAWrestling national championship 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/KK4ngwH7mW

— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) March 23, 2025

Trump, who attended the championship event alongside high-profile guests, responded with applause and a raised fist, showing his appreciation for the young athlete’s patriotic display. Moments later, Hendrickson and Trump exchanged a handshake and a hug in a brief but memorable interaction.

“He said he’s very proud of me,” Hendrickson shared after the match. “That’s the Commander in Chief. I’m very proud of that. He came here to support his troops, I put on a show for him, I won him that national title.”

The Wells Fargo Center was buzzing with energy throughout the night as Trump made his entrance to a largely enthusiastic crowd. Chants of “USA” filled the arena as he took his seat alongside notable figures such as entrepreneur Elon Musk, Congressman Jim Jordan, and Pennsylvania Senate candidate Dave McCormick.

Trump’s presence at the NCAA Wrestling Championships marked yet another instance of his strong connection to the sports world. Having attended major events such as the Super Bowl and the Daytona 500 earlier this year, the former president continues to show his support for American athletes.

Hendrickson’s upset victory and his heartfelt salute to Trump added a historic and patriotic chapter to the championship’s legacy—one that will be remembered by wrestling fans and political observers alike.