US Open launch huge security operation for 'nerve agent threat' as Donald Trump attends

US Open organisers have launched a huge security operation ahead of president Donald Trump's visit. The 79-year-old will watch the men's singles final between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday - his first appearance in Flushing Meadows since 2015.

Precautions have been put in place ahead of the president's appearance, as nerve agents and chemical weapons are reportedly among the potential threats at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre.

A source told the Daily Mail: "We've been scoping out the area with our colleagues in the CIA and taking precautions in the event of an attack using chemical weapons or nerve agents."

The preparations are said to be precautionary and do not relate to any specific threats.

Ahead of Sunday's men's final, airport-style security scanners have been set up around Arthur Ashe Stadium.

President Trump was not invited to the championship match by tournament organisers. He is being hosted by Swiss luxury watch brand Rolex. It comes weeks after he raised US import tariffs on Swiss good, including luxury watches, to 39 per cent.

But the USTA has taken action ahead of his visit, asking broadcasters - including the likes of ESPN and Sky Sports - to censor any protests and reactions to the president's visit.

An email sent to the broadcasters, obtained by Bounces, read: "With respect to Broadcast Coverage, the President will be shown on the World Feed and the Ashe Court Feed during the opening anthem ceremony.

"We ask all broadcasters to refrain from showcasing any disruptions or reactions in response to the President's attendance in any capacity, including ENG [Electronic News Gathering] coverage."

After booking his spot in the final with a straight-set victory over Novak Djokovic on Friday, Alcaraz was asked about playing in front of president Trump.

"It is a privilege for the tournaments having the president from every country just to support the tournament, to support tennis, and to support the match," he said.

"For me, playing in front of him... so, to be honest, I will try not to be focused, and I will try not to think about it. I don't want myself to be nervous because of it, but I think, you know, attending the tennis match, it's great for tennis to have the president into the final."

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