‘The Trump Curse’: Is Donald Trump a bad omen for sports teams?
When Trump Enters the Arena: A Sports Phenomenon Takes Shape
The Trump Curse - There are many ways to describe an ill omen. Some call it a jinx, others a hex, and still others a malediction. Whatever terminology you choose, something peculiar has emerged in the sporting world. Following America's embarrassing loss to Belgium during this year's World Cup tournament, a new phrase began circulating across digital platforms. The "Trump curse" gained momentum rapidly among athletic enthusiasts who believe the former president brings misfortune to teams he supports.
The timing proved unfortunate for American soccer supporters. Their team's defeat came during what many consider the most scandalous moment in recent World Cup history. Social media users quickly pointed fingers at Trump, claiming his involvement sealed the team's fate. The controversy centered on Trump's claim that he personally contacted Gianni Infantino, the head of FIFA, to reverse the red card issued to American forward Folarin Balogun. What began as a gesture of support transformed into what many perceived as interference that backfired spectacularly.
Global Reactions and Growing Skepticism
Critics on both sides of the Atlantic accused Trump and FIFA leadership of corruption. The European Commission issued statements calling for greater transparency and fairness following the disputed red card incident. Meanwhile, a petition circulated through the European Parliament requesting an official inquiry into whether Trump's pressure tactics influenced FIFA's reversal decision. Despite the controversy, Trump's intervention appeared to worsen rather than improve the situation for American fans.
Football supporters worldwide turned against the US team, many of whom had not requested presidential attention. Instead of feeling supported, American fans found themselves cheering for their opponents when Belgium eliminated the host nation. Social media platforms erupted with commentary from disappointed followers.
"At this point, a Trump endorsement is starting to look less like support and more like a curse," one social media user observed.
"Trump stuck his nose in where it didn't belong. It made the world hate us even more than they already do, and emboldened Belgium. I wish the US had won and I have to wonder if we would have, if Trump had not interfered. ETTD: Everything Trump touches dies," another writer added.
"4 to 1 Belgium, and Trump cheating on Team USA's behalf ends up meaningless because his curse always takes over," a third commenter noted.
A Pattern of Athletic Misfortune
While some dismiss these reactions as overreactions, historical evidence suggests otherwise. Trump appears to carry what fans call a reverse Midas Touch, bringing bad luck to teams he publicly supports. The most recent example involves the New York Knicks during the NBA finals. Trump attended Game 3, which turned out to be the Knicks' sole loss in the series. Following the defeat, Knicks supporters accused Trump of placing a curse on their team. In response, some fans performed a cleansing ceremony at Madison Square Garden, burning sacred herbs in a practice called smudging to drive away negative energy. The ritual appeared successful, as the Knicks ultimately won the championship series in five games.
Additional examples strengthen the curse theory. During a 2024 NFL matchup, Trump watched the Washington Commanders play the Detroit Lions. The Lions secured victory while receiving boos from Trump in attendance. Later that year, Trump attended the opening day of the 2025 Ryder Cup on Long Island. American golfers trailed Europe 3-1 at midday. Trump confidently told reporters that victory was certain. By day's end, however, the Americans found themselves down 5½ to 2½, and Europe ultimately claimed the competition with a 15-13 scoreline.
Perhaps the most telling example occurred in February 2025 during Super Bowl LIX. Trump publicly predicted the Kansas City Chiefs would defeat the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles won decisively with a 40-22 score, leaving Trump's prediction unfulfilled once again.
What Should Sports Fans Do?
Football enthusiasts now believe that Trump's interference, combined with his tendency to make everything about himself, may have cost the American team a potential victory over Belgium. While no one can claim certainty, the accumulating evidence is compelling. Sports analysts and casual fans alike have developed a simple strategy: whenever Trump publicly backs a team, consider betting against them. This approach has proven remarkably effective so far, turning what might seem like superstition into a practical guide for athletic wagering.