The 'Trump curse' theory has been reignited after the United States men's national team was eliminated from the World Cup by Belgium, following President Donald Trump's intervention to overturn a player's suspension.
Belgium's Social Media Jab
Moments after Belgium's 4-1 victory over the USA, the Belgian Football Association posted a picture of forward Romelu Lukaku celebrating the fourth goal with the caption: 'Overturn this.' The post was a clear reference to the controversy surrounding American striker Folarin Balogun, who had been suspended after a red card in the USA's round of 32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Trump asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino, a friend, to review the decision, leading FIFA to suspend the one-match ban and allow Balogun to face Belgium.
One Player Couldn't Change the Outcome
Despite Balogun's availability, Belgium dominated the match, winning comfortably 4-1. The European side outplayed the co-hosts, whose campaign ended with defensive errors. The debate over Balogun's suspension quickly faded as Belgium's performance made it clear that one player would not have altered the result.
The 'Trump Curse' Theory
The outcome revived the 'Trump curse' theory, a popular internet concept suggesting that teams or events associated with Trump suffer misfortune. According to the theory, whenever Trump appears at a major sporting event, the team he supports often loses. While few believe Trump has supernatural powers, the theory has gained traction due to several high-profile examples.
Examples of the 'Trump Curse'
Trump attended Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs. The Knicks lost 115-111, ending a 13-game winning streak and their only defeat in the series. Some fans responded by burning sage outside Madison Square Garden, as seen in a video by podcast host Kazeem Famuyide. In American football, Trump attended a Washington Commanders game against the Detroit Lions in November 2025. The Lions won 44-22, but then lost five of their final eight games and missed the playoffs. Former NFL wide receiver Kenny Stills summed up the reaction with the words 'Trump curse.' Golf also saw the curse when Trump attended the opening day of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. The USA trailed Europe 3-1 after the morning session and eventually lost 15-13. The tournament ended with the PGA of America president apologizing for 'disrespectful' chants aimed at Team Europe.
No Proof, but a Persistent Meme
None of these defeats prove a sporting curse exists, but the theory persists, fueled by memes and social media reactions. Belgium's social media admin capitalized on the moment, posting the 'Overturn this' caption after the match, which spread quickly. The eight remaining World Cup teams may hope Trump does not declare support for them, fearing the so-called curse.
