He’s breaking his silence.
Philadelphia Eagles star Saquon Barkley recently sparked controversy after golfing with former President Donald Trump at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey. The encounter, which included a ride on Marine One, drew significant attention, especially on social media, where critics voiced disapproval of Barkley’s decision to spend time with the former president. Despite the backlash, Barkley remained unfazed and stood by his choice.
In a response posted on X (formerly Twitter), Barkley dismissed the criticism and emphasized that his actions were rooted in respect for the office of the presidency, rather than political allegiance. He mentioned that he had also played golf with former President Barack Obama and expressed interest in finishing a round with Trump. His message urged followers to avoid politicizing the moment and focus on having a positive day.
The reaction to Barkley’s outing is part of a broader trend where athletes’ personal associations with political figures often become flashpoints for public debate. In Barkley’s case, his defense highlights a perspective that views respect for institutions separately from political opinions or affiliations. His willingness to engage with leaders across the political spectrum reflects this stance.
Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles have accepted an invitation to visit the White House to celebrate their 2025 Super Bowl victory. Head coach Nick Sirianni described the invitation as an honor but clarified that players would have the freedom to decide whether or not to attend. This openness allows team members to make individual choices based on their personal beliefs.
