The ‘Donald Trump’ dance continues to make waves across the NFL, with Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Zach Sieler becoming the latest player to imitate the controversial moves popularized by the president-elect. The trend has been sweeping the sports world, with athletes from various leagues celebrating on the field by mimicking Trump’s signature shuffle.
The 78-year-old former president brought the dance into the spotlight during his recent election campaign, using it as a light-hearted gesture at rallies before ultimately sealing his return to the White House. Since then, the dance has taken on a life of its own, catching on with athletes and becoming a recognizable symbol of the campaign’s high-energy atmosphere.
In recent weeks, several high-profile stars have joined in on the trend, including NFL players Brock Bowers, Calvin Ridley, and Nick Bosa.
This past Sunday, Zach Sieler added his name to the list during Miami’s 34-15 win over the New England Patriots. After a crucial defensive stop, Sieler celebrated by breaking into the ‘Trump dance,’ delighting the crowd and adding a touch of flair to the Dolphins’ victory.
Sieler wasn’t alone in his celebration, as he was quickly joined by teammates Calais Campbell and Emmanuel Ogbah, who came over to join in the dance. The three players performed the moves together on the field, drawing cheers from fans and further fueling the trend’s popularity within the NFL.
The NFL has addressed the increasing prevalence of the ‘Trump dance’ celebrations, stating that they have “no issue” with the gesture. A league spokesperson commented, “It’s up to the networks to cover them as they see fit.” This hands-off approach has allowed the dance to flourish as a form of expression for players, with many taking the opportunity to add their own flair to the moves.
The trend isn’t limited to the NFL, as athletes from other sports have also joined in on the craze. UFC champion Jon Jones, professional golfer Charley Hull, and USMNT star Christian Pulisic have all performed the dance in recent weeks, adding their own unique spins to the celebration.
However, the growing popularity of the dance has sparked some debate, especially regarding its political implications.
Christian Pulisic, who performed the dance after a recent goal, insisted that it was not intended as a political statement. “It was just for fun. I saw a bunch of people do it and thought it was funny, so I enjoyed it. I hope some people did,” Pulisic said in response to questions about the gesture.
His comments, however, have not quelled the debate, as opinions remain divided on whether the dance can be considered apolitical.
Tim Howard weighed in on the matter, addressing Pulisic and other athletes who have taken part in the trend. Howard argued that any public display related to Donald Trump inevitably carries political weight. “If you’re going to make a political statement, then be bold and brash enough to stand behind it. Don’t go quiet and don’t plead innocence like Christian Pulisic,” Howard said. “Any show of support for Donald Trump is political… you cannot have it both ways. You’re on one side of this or the other. If you are bold enough to publicly make a statement, I don’t have a problem with that. But own it.”
Howard’s comments have added to the ongoing discussion surrounding the ‘Trump dance’ and its place in sports.
While some players insist it’s simply a fun, light-hearted celebration, others argue that it carries deeper connotations, especially given the polarizing nature of the former president. As more athletes adopt the dance, the debate over its meaning is likely to continue.
Regardless of the political implications, the dance has undeniably become a trend that has caught the attention of fans and athletes alike.
Whether it’s meant as a statement of support, a playful gesture, or simply a fun way to celebrate, the ‘Trump dance’ has become a fixture in the sports world, with its impact continuing to grow week by week.
