Sky News presenters Sophy Ridge and Wilfred Frost have weighed in on the humiliating reception Donald Trump received at a basketball game, with Frost calling the booing 'frustrating' and 'unconstructive.' The US President was mercilessly jeered by fans as he entered Madison Square Garden for Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday evening.
Trump Booed at NBA Finals
In widely circulated footage, Trump was loudly booed upon his arrival and again during the national anthem. Knicks supporters throughout the venue heckled him and hurled expletives in his direction all evening. Discussing the incident on Sky News Mornings with Ridge and Frost, the host expressed empathy for Trump.
'I think booing is so frustrating at any point, a very unconstructive way to affect change,' Frost told co-presenter Ridge. He then reflected on how the UK manages to avoid such public humiliations for heads of state, regardless of public sentiment.
'I love how in this country, whatever you think about the monarchy or not, that head of state and head of government are separate. So we don't usually protest our politicians or the political issues by booing our national anthem, which allows the national anthem to stay separate and be supported more widely and proudly, which I'm a big fan of,' he said.
Trump Appears to Doze Off
Aside from the mortifying reception, the evening proved tense for Trump as he appeared to doze off mid-game. Footage circulating online depicts the president shutting his eyes as he clasps his hands in his lap. His head dips slightly for approximately 45 seconds before he suddenly opens his eyes, glances about, and observes the action unfolding on the court beneath him.
Bruised Hands Visible
Throughout the national anthem, while being booed, Trump's bruised and discoloured hands were clearly visible as he was shown on the big screen. Attentive photographers documented his heavily made-up hand as he waved at the booing Knicks supporters. His hands have become a focus of attention over the past year, following massive black bruises observed on the back of his right hand early in his second term. The White House attributed the bruising to an aspirin regimen and the considerable number of people he greets daily.
