President Donald Trump is once again at the center of sports conversation after the United States’ World Cup campaign ended in a heavy defeat, prompting fans online to joke about what they are calling the “Trump curse.”
The nickname has gained traction on social media following a series of high-profile sporting events Trump has attended or publicly supported that ended in losses for the American side or the team he backed.
World Cup fuels the narrative
The latest example came after FIFA suspended the one-match ban for U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play against Belgium. The decision followed reports that Trump had personally contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino, although FIFA said the ruling was made under its disciplinary code.
Despite Balogun’s return, the United States suffered a 4-1 defeat to Belgium, ending its World Cup run and giving online critics another example to add to the growing meme.
Fans compare it to the “Drake curse”
The trend has drawn comparisons to the long-running “Drake curse,” an internet joke suggesting teams often lose after receiving public support from rapper Drake.
Unlike that meme, the so-called “Trump curse” centers on Trump’s appearances at sporting events or his public endorsements rather than betting predictions.
Other sporting defeats
Social media users have pointed to several recent examples that fit the narrative, including Trump’s attendance at major sporting events where U.S. teams or his favored side came up short.
Among the examples frequently mentioned are the Kansas City Chiefs’ loss in the Super Bowl, defeats involving teams Trump publicly supported and the recent U.S. exit from the World Cup. While the list has grown online, there is no evidence that Trump’s involvement has any impact on sporting outcomes.
An internet joke, not a real phenomenon
The “Trump curse” remains an internet meme rather than a genuine pattern supported by evidence. Sports fans have long created similar superstitions involving celebrities, politicians and even broadcasters whose presence coincides with losses.
As with the “Drake curse,” the trend has become part of sports culture, with fans using humor to explain unexpected results rather than suggesting any real connection.
The conversation continues
Whether the nickname sticks remains to be seen, but Trump’s role in the Balogun controversy has ensured his name remains part of the World Cup conversation even after the United States’ elimination.
For many fans, the latest defeat simply added another chapter to an online running joke that shows no signs of disappearing anytime soon.
