New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick has said he will not receive the Presidential Medal for Freedom from President Trump in the wake of last week’s U.S. Chapter riots.
Belichick, who previously spoke publicly about his friendship with the president, was to receive the nation’s highest civilian honor after Trump offered it to him more than a week ago. That’s before a lot of supporters of the president besieged the Chapter, leaving five people dead.
“Recently, I was given the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which I have flattered with respect for honor and admiration for previous recipients,” Belichick said in a statement. “Subsequently, the tragic events of last week occurred and the decision was made not to continue with the award.”
The news of the offer to Belichick appeared only on Sunday, provoking questions if the best performer in the history of football will be with his friend amid the controversy.
Although Belichick’s statement did not mention Trump by name, the decision comes as a harsh rebuke to a president who has faced calls from Democratic lawmakers and 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 been criticized for associating with the president following recent events.