Italian Football Giants Juventus Embroiled in Controversy During Club World Cup Visit

An awkward encounter unfolded at the White House on Wednesday, as Juventus players and staff were pressed by President Donald Trump to share their views on transgender women in sports. The Italian football giants, who are currently competing in the Club World Cup, had just defeated Al Ain 5-0 at Washington DC’s Audi Field, hours before their meeting with Trump.

During a gathering where Trump held forth on various topics, he turned to the Juventus players and staff, who were lined up behind him, and asked, “Could a woman make your team, fellas?” The players smiled nervously but did not offer a response. When Trump asked the question again, Juventus’ general manager, Damien Comolli, attempted to deflect the query by mentioning the team’s successful women’s squad, which is the reigning Serie A champion.

Trump’s comments came at a time when trans people are facing increasing hostility in the US. Earlier on Wednesday, the US Supreme Court ruled that a Tennessee state law banning gender-affirming care for minors can stand, dealing a devastating blow to trans rights supporters. The ruling sets a precedent that could lead to a stream of lawsuits involving the rights of transgender children.

The Juventus players, who included US internationals Timothy Weah and Weston McKennie, seemed uncomfortable with Trump’s question, but Comolli’s diplomatic response only seemed to enrage the president. “He’s being very diplomatic,” Trump said, implying that Comolli was not providing a clear answer.

Juventus’ victory over Al Ain was a dominant display of football, with two goals each from Randal Kolo Muani and Francisco Conceição. The win sent Juventus top of Group G, level with Manchester City, who beat Wydad 2-0 earlier on Wednesday. Coach Igor Tudor praised the team’s performance, saying, “There was lovely energy between the players; that desire to work hard for one another, to run for one another … We are going in the right direction.”

This controversy comes as the US continues to grapple with its stance on LGBTQ+ rights. The White House’s stance on transgender athletes has been a topic of debate in recent years, with Trump signing an executive order in February banning transgender participants from women’s sports. The move has been met with widespread criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates and allies.

In a statement, Juventus expressed their commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion, saying, “At Juventus, we believe that everyone should be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their background, identity, or sexual orientation. We will continue to promote a culture of acceptance and inclusivity, both on and off the pitch.”

The team’s stance on the issue is a welcome respite from the controversy that has surrounded the White House’s handling of LGBTQ+ issues. As the Club World Cup continues, Juventus will be looking to put the controversy behind them and focus on their football.