Wyatt Hendrickson Salutes Trump After NCAA Wrestling Upset
Oklahoma State wrestler Wyatt Hendrickson saluted President Donald Trump after defeating Minnesota’s Gable Steveson at the NCAA Wrestling Championships.
In a stunning upset at the NCAA Wrestling Championships held in Philadelphia on March 22, 2025, Oklahoma State’s Wyatt Hendrickson defeated Minnesota’s Gable Steveson in the 285-pound division. Following his victory, Hendrickson, a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, saluted President Donald Trump, who was in attendance, and received a supportive fist wave in return. The match ended with Hendrickson scoring a crucial takedown in the final moments, overturning Steveson’s 70-match winning streak and his bid for a third national title.
Hendrickson’s victory is considered one of the most significant upsets in NCAA wrestling history. Steveson, who had previously won national titles in 2021 and 2022, took a year off in 2023 to pursue careers in the NFL and WWE before returning for the 2024 season. The crowd and broadcasters were left in shock as Hendrickson managed to secure the win with only seconds remaining on the clock.
Speaking after the match, Hendrickson attributed his success to his faith and mental preparation. He mentioned drawing inspiration from the biblical story of David and Goliath, focusing on the vision of victory that David had before entering his battle. “I kind of carried that with me all week,” Hendrickson said, emphasizing his mindset of courage and patience during the match.
In addition to his wrestling career, Hendrickson plans to serve in the Air Force for the next 20 years. Currently an acquisitions officer, he is part of the World Class Athlete Program, which enabled him to compete this year. Hendrickson expressed his long-term commitment to the military, stating that his time at the Air Force Academy was about more than just wrestling; it was about achieving his career and life goals.
The event also highlighted the presence of President Trump, adding a political dimension to the sports spectacle. Hendrickson’s salute to Trump and the president’s acknowledgment brought attention to the intersection of sports and politics, a recurring theme in recent American events.