Elon Musk's bruised, black eye sparks viral online theories: Here's the official story

Economic Times

31-05-2025

Elon Musk showed up at the White House on Friday with a bruised face, which he explained was the result of a punch from his 5-year-old son, X. The remark came during a press event marking Musk's departure from his role in Donald Trump's administration, where he led a cost-cutting initiative that shook Washington but fell short of its lofty goals. While Musk deflected attention from his injury with jokes, serious questions lingered about his reported drug use and fractured political ties.
Elon Musk applaudes in the Oval Office as he attends a press conference with U.S. President Donald Trump, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 30, 2025. REUTERS/Nathan Howard
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Elon Musk turned up at the White House with a black eye on Friday. The Tesla and SpaceX boss said it wasn't from politics, or a fall, or even France. 'We were horsing around, and I said, 'Go ahead, punch me in the face.' And he did,' Musk told reporters, chuckling. He was referring to his son, X, who is five.Donald Trump, seated next to him in the Oval Office, jumped in: 'That was X that did that? …X could do it. If you knew X.'Musk explained that he didn't feel much pain at the time, but the bruise showed up later. When first asked about the injury, he deflected with a joke: 'I wasn't anywhere near France,' referencing the viral rumour involving French President Emmanuel Macron's wife.But while the exchange was light-hearted, the context was far from it.Earlier the same day, The New York Times published a detailed report alleging that Musk had been using ketamine in amounts that raised serious concerns. Musk had previously acknowledged using the drug under prescription. The timing of the article—just before the joint White House event—amplified scrutiny.During the press event, Musk was asked directly about the article. He didn't answer the question head-on. Instead, he took aim at the media outlet.'New York Times, is that the same publication that got a Pulitzer Prize for false reporting on Russiagate? Is it the same organization? I think it is!' Musk said. He continued, 'I think the judge just ruled against New York Times for their lies about the Russiagate hoax and that they might have to give back that Pulitzer Prize.'The remarks drew attention but didn't provide clarity. On social media, speculation surged. One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: 'Yoo did Elon Musk get straight up punched in the face? That's a left hook black eye if I've ever seen one. Might explain his delayed talk?'The press conference was meant to mark the end of Musk's stint as a 'special government employee.' For about four months, he had led the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a role created to cut federal spending.Trump praised him: 'Elon's service to America has been without comparison in modern history.' He handed Musk a golden key bearing the White House seal as a parting gift.Though Musk promised $1 trillion in savings, that goal remained out of reach. Still, the role gave him sway in reshaping several federal agencies. His influence also extended to key appointments: allies of Musk now lead NASA and the Air Force, both crucial partners for SpaceX.Even as the bond between Trump and Musk cooled in recent months, the president made a show of unity. 'One of the greatest business leaders and innovators the world has ever produced,' Trump called him.Musk said his departure was due to the legal limit of 130 days for such temporary roles. But signs of a growing rift with Trump had already emerged. He recently voiced displeasure over the administration's tariffs and criticised its domestic policy bill, saying it would worsen the deficit.Now, Musk says he plans to refocus on his private ventures. 'I hope to continue to be a friend and adviser to the president,' he added.His time in Washington may be over, but the headlines, the controversy, and the bruises—both literal and political—seem far from finished.