Amon-Ra St. Brown, the star receiver for the Detroit Lions, made headlines by celebrating a touchdown with a viral dance associated with former President Donald Trump during the NFL’s ‘Salute to Service’ game at Northwest Stadium. The event, held on a Sunday, coincided with Trump’s attendance at the Washington Commanders’ matchup against the Lions. St. Brown’s celebration was a standout moment, as he pointed toward where Trump was seated and performed the Trump Dance, a move that has gained traction in the NFL over the past year.
President Trump’s presence at the game marked his first appearance at an NFL regular-season game since 1978, when former President Jimmy Carter attended a game. The event was part of the NFL’s nationwide tribute to military veterans, a theme that resonated with the Commanders’ home game and the broader community. Trump arrived at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, after spending the morning golfing in Florida. His attendance also highlighted the ongoing discussions about the future of the Commanders’ stadium, with reports suggesting that Trump may want the new facility named after him, a proposal that the White House has not yet confirmed.
The Trump Dance, which originated from Trump’s campaign rallies, has become a recurring element in NFL celebrations. Players have adopted it to commemorate significant plays, with St. Brown’s performance drawing particular attention due to the political context of the event. The movement was a reminder of the intersection between politics and sports, as Trump’s presence at the game sparked discussions about his influence on American culture and his continued engagement with public events. The Commanders’ club president, Mark Clouse, expressed honor at welcoming Trump to the game, emphasizing the significance of the Salute to Service initiative.
Trump’s attendance at the game also marked one of several public appearances this year, following his participation in Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans and previous events such, as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ game during the campaign trail and various UFC matches. As the game continued, the potential for more Trump-related celebrations emerged, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the event. The combination of sports, service, and politics made the game a unique occasion, drawing attention from fans and commentators alike.