Carter Starocci made history at the NCAA wrestling championships by becoming the first-ever five-time national champion in NCAA history. The moment was made even more memorable when he celebrated his victory by shaking hands with former President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia on March 22, 2025.
Starocci, representing Penn State, clinched the 184-pound championship after a close match against Parker Keckeisen from Northern Iowa, winning 4-3. This victory marked Starocci’s fifth NCAA title, a feat that many believe may not be repeated in the future. His achievement was supported by a fifth year of eligibility granted to athletes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
After his historic win, Starocci walked over to greet Trump, who was in attendance along with other notable figures, including Musk. The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with a mix of cheers and boos as Trump entered, highlighting the divided opinions surrounding his presence. However, many fans chanted "U-S-A! U-S-A!" in support.
Starocci’s coach, Cael Sanderson, also took a moment to shake hands with Trump, further emphasizing the significance of the event. Other Penn State wrestlers expressed their excitement about Trump’s attendance, suggesting it could help raise the profile of college wrestling. Josh Barr, a fellow wrestler, noted that Trump brings energy and attention to the sport, which is essential for its growth.
The championships returned to Philadelphia for the first time since 2011, marking a significant moment for the city and the Penn State program, which has dominated college wrestling in recent years. They have won 12 out of the last 14 titles, including four consecutive championships.
Trump’s involvement in the event shone a light on college wrestling, attracting national media attention. His presence was a topic of conversation among wrestlers, with some suggesting that having the president at the event could boost viewership, regardless of political affiliation.
Starocci’s historic win and the high-profile attendance of Trump and Musk combined to create a memorable night in college sports, showcasing the intersection of athletics and politics in a unique way.