New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick said he will not receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Trump in the wake of last week’s riot at the Capitol.
Belichick, who has previously spoken publicly about his friendship with the president, is said to receive the country’s highest civilian honor after Trump presented it more than a week ago. That was before a mob of supporters of the president besieged the Capitol, killing five people.
“Recently, I had the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which made me feel flattered in respect for what the honor represents and in admiration for previous recipients,” Belichick said in a statement. “Subsequently, the tragic events of last week occurred and it was decided not to proceed with the prize.”
News of Belichick’s offer didn’t get out until Sunday, raising questions as to whether the most accomplished coach in football history would assist his friend amid the controversy.
While not naming Trump in Belichick’s statement, the decision amounts to a sharp rebuke to 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 greatest golfers of all time. Player and Sorenstam have been criticized for interacting with the president in the wake of recent events.