(ETH) – New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick just announced that he will not be receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Trump in the wake of the violence at the U.S. Capitol.
This is a sudden turn of events being that Belichick, had previously spoken publicly about his friendship with the president, and was scheduled to receive the nation’s highest civilian honor after Trump offered it over a week ago. However, that will no longer be the case following the Capitol riot, leaving five people dead.
“Recently, I was offered the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which I was flattered by out of respect for what the honor represents and admiration for prior recipients,” Belichick said in a statement. “Subsequently, the tragic events of last week occurred and the decision has been made not to move forward with the award.”
According to the Wall Street Journal: “Although Belichick’s statement did not mention Trump by name, the decision amounts to a sharp rebuke of a president who has faced calls from Democratic lawmakers, and some Republicans, to be removed from office. His decision comes just days after Trump awarded the medal to Gary Player and Annika Sorenstam, two of the best golfers of all time. Player and Sorenstam have faced criticism for associating with the president in the wake of recent events”.