Donald Trump in awkward moment with Juventus players during White House visit
U.S. President Donald Trump attempted to win over Juventus footballers with his stance on trans athletes, posing an uncomfortable question during their White House visit on Wednesday.
The 78-year-old hosted several members of the Italian team and club officials in the Oval Office ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup opener against Al-Ain in Washington, D. C., with USMNT players Weston McKennie and Timothy Weah among those present.
They are now set to showcase their skills at DC United's Audi Field against their UAE-based rivals, following criticism of FIFA for "abandoning its principles in an effort to keep President Trump happy" due to a lack of anti-racism messages at this summer's event.
This follows last week's announcement by the Department of Homeland Security that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents will be deployed throughout the tournament, while Iran faces the prospect of having no supporters at next year's FIFA World Cup due to Trump's travel ban, reports the Irish Star.
Despite this, the president tried to redeem himself by making a positive impression when Juventus players and staff joined him in the Oval Office on Wednesday, although it wasn't long before things took a turn for the worse.
While speaking to the media with his guests in tow, Donald Trump broached the contentious issue of transgender athletes. He has ardently promoted this topic ever since he implemented an executive order earlier this year that prohibits biological men from participating in girls' and women's sports.
Throwing out a pointed question to a cluster of players, Trump queried, "Could a woman make your team, fellas," seeking their take on the debate. The players offered only uneasy smiles in lieu of an articulated stance.
Next, Trump turned to another group and reissued his question, this time pressing the general managers for their opinions by asking directly, "What do you think?".
Damien Comolli, Juventus's general manager, sidestepped the controversial topic, pointing out, "We have a very good women's team."
It's no secret that Juventus Women top the Serie A as the reigning champions.
Trump, however, wasn't done there, firing back with: "But they should be playing with women," as Comolli looked to the floor and chose not to answer. "He's being very diplomatic," said Trump as he looked back towards the cameras.
In response to the awkward encounter, many took to social media to slam Trump for trying to bait the team into endorsing his transphobia, while also praising Juventus for maintaining their professionalism.
In an online comment, one individual stated: "Crazy when a soccer team is more diplomatic than the President of the United States," referring to X's post.
"He's so awful, but the players and coaches handled it well," commented someone else.
Another social media user said: "Kudos to Juventus @juventusfc and @DamienJComolli for responding with great dignity. 'We have a very good women's team'."
A further comment read: "Maga is more obsessed with trans people than trans people."
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