Why did Donald Trump become furious when LeBron James mimicked playing golf during the national anthem?
Donald Trump, the U.S. president, posted criticism of LeBron James, the Philadelphia 76ers superstar, on 22 Oct local time. He disapproved of LeBron's behavior during the national anthem before the Sixers' 106-100 victory over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on 20 Oct.
What happened?
According to reports from 6abc and ESPN, LeBron James appeared to be practicing golf swings and jump shots while most of his teammates stood still.
What did Trump criticize?
Trump posted a video on Truth Social with a message accusing LeBron of "not respecting the country." He added he had said from the start that LeBron was not great and called the act "a complete disgrace," demanding LeBron apologize.
Nick Nurse, the Sixers head coach, said the criticism toward his players was just another outside distraction the team had to face.
Do U.S. basketball fans agree with Trump?
Sports fans expressed mixed opinions; some criticized Trump for frequently attacking athletes, while others also criticized LeBron's behavior.
However, this was not the first time Trump harshly criticized LeBron. Previously, Trump suggested LeBron might be "racist" after he signed with the Sixers.
So why is there ongoing conflict between the two, when one is an athlete and the other a politician?
LeBron James had publicly supported Hillary Clinton in the 2016 U.S. presidential election against Trump, writing at the time, "We need a president who will unite us and maintain harmony."
After Trump won that election, their direct clashes increased, including when Trump rescinded an invitation for the Golden State Warriors to visit the White House after winning the NBA championship.
"Man, going to the White House used to be a great honor until you showed up!" LeBron posted on social media in September 2017.
Trump frequently took opportunities to attack LeBron James, while expressing admiration for Michael Jordan. Trump once said,
"Hmm, Michael Jordan is my friend. I think LeBron might be racist, or maybe he just doesn’t like Trump. I don’t know, but I only like people who like me, so I’m fully on Michael Jordan’s side."