Former Noah Syndergaard, best known for his time with the New York Mets, made headlines this week with a visit to the White House, where he took part in a special ceremony alongside Donald Trump.
Syndergaard was among several professional athletes invited to stand alongside the president during an Oval Office event marking the reinstatement of the Presidential Physical Fitness Award. The initiative aims to reintroduce an annual focus on physical fitness in schools across the country, encouraging students to stay active and healthy.
During the ceremony, Trump made lighthearted remarks about Syndergaard’s well-known nickname, “Thor.” “Professional baseball pitcher, Noah Syndergaard, sometimes known as Thor—and he looks like Thor to me,” Trump said. “That is a man that I wouldn’t want to get in a fight with.”
Following the ceremony, Syndergaard joined Trump outside on the White House grounds, where the pair spent time with local children. The former MLB standout was seen playing catch and even demonstrating how to properly perform a pull-up, offering encouragement and tips to the young participants.
Syndergaard spoke about his support for the return of physical fitness testing, reflecting on his own childhood experiences. He shared that the initiative resonates with him personally, recalling how he once participated in similar activities as a student. Describing himself as a “late bloomer” and a “husky kid” growing up, he emphasized how meaningful it is to now be part of a national effort promoting youth fitness.
He also spoke candidly about his time with the president, offering his perspective on Trump’s energy and demeanor. Syndergaard noted that he was impressed by the president’s enthusiasm and engagement throughout the event. He also commented on Trump saying "“I really just don’t quite understand the negativity or the pessimism he gets from the media and some of the population of this nation because he’s just such a patriotic guy, and he cares so much [about] everybody and the health of this nation and the health of this world.”
The visit highlighted the continued connection between sports and community initiatives, as athletes like Syndergaard use their platform to promote health, wellness, and positive habits among young people.