Juventus players couldn't hide their discomfort during an awkward 16-minute White House visit with President Trump on Wednesday. The Italian football giants quickly became props in Trump's political theater rather than honored guests.
Dressed in white hooded sweatshirts, the players fidgeted and rolled their eyes while Trump addressed serious geopolitical issues from behind the Resolute Desk. It was a stark contrast to typical sports team visits.
"They just told us that we have to go, and I had no choice but to go," admitted Juventus and USMNT forward Tim Weah afterward. "I was caught by surprise when he started talking about all the politics with Iran and everything. I was kind of like, 'I just want to play football.'"
From Football to Politics in an Instant
The visit was meant to promote the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, a 32-team tournament that will serve as a test run before the 2026 World Cup. Instead, players watched uncomfortably as Trump discussed potential military action against Iran.
The president even dragged players into his stance on transgender athletes, asking them directly: "Could a woman make your team, fellas?" The question was met with silence and nervous energy from the squad.
When Juventus GM Damien Comolli tried to diplomatically mention the club's women's team, Trump quickly moved on. The sports diplomacy moment had clearly transformed into something else entirely.
Shifting Attitudes in Sports World
The awkward Juventus visit highlights a changing relationship between sports and politics. During Trump's first term, many teams and athletes avoided White House visits entirely.
Now, there seems to be a new approach. Recent months have seen the Philadelphia Eagles, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Florida's basketball team all make the traditional champions' visit to the White House despite previously divisive politics.
Sports leaders have also sought Trump's favor. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred recently admitted Trump's stance influenced the decision to potentially allow Pete Rose Hall of Fame consideration.
For fans and bettors watching this cultural shift, it could signal changes in how sports organizations position themselves politically. This might affect everything from athlete activism to team marketing approaches in coming seasons.
Hours after the uncomfortable White House appearance, Juventus showed they could still perform on the pitch. They defeated UAE's Al Ain 5-0 at Audi Field, proving they're ready for the upcoming Club World Cup competition regardless of political distractions.
