They all compete under the same national flag but when it comes to voting America’s sports stars are divided.
In the Clinton camp are pro basketballers Stephen Curry and Lebron James, controversial soccer player Hope Solo and the daughter of the late legendary boxer Muhammad Ali – Laila Ali.
Support for Trump has come from former bad boy basketballer and friend of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Dennis Rodman, the boxer Mike Tyson, golfer John Daly, wrestler Hulk Hogan and legendary boxing promoter Don King.
Lebron James endorsed Clinton at a campaign rally in Cleveland last month, saying, “With my [charitable] foundation, giving kids the notion that someone cares about them, that someone like myself … and President Hillary Clinton can make their dreams become a reality, is very important to me. And I believe that this woman right here can continue that.”
"As a kid, I didn't have much money. But I had basketball."
Lebron's moving endorsement of Hillary. https://t.co/ONV38l8jyz— Nicholas Thompson (@nxthompson) October 3, 2016
Hope Solo endorsed Clinton, saying “Hillary is the best candidate, the best leader, the best diplomat. I support the best person for every job, every time. Man or woman, black or white, gay or straight.”
Laila Ali, who finished her own boxing career with a record of 24-0, said: “I’m ready to fight for Hillary the same way I did in the ring: with strength, skill, and confidence.”
Former basketballer Charles Barkley told CNN Clinton was the better option – but it was not a ringing endorsement:
Ex-NBA star Charles Barkley: Hillary Clinton "makes me uncomfortable," but "I can’t vote for the other guy” https://t.co/mMLiDXHMb3 pic.twitter.com/LGe6YVveNn
— CNN Sport (@cnnsport) October 19, 2016
While most of the Trump camp were quiet on social media, Denis Rodman had previously posted his support:
@realDonaldTrump has been a great friend for many years. We don't need another politician, we need a businessman like Mr. Trump! Trump 2016
— Dennis Rodman (@dennisrodman) July 24, 2015
– Jesse Mullens
Photo of Lebron James walking out o endorse Clinton in Cleveland from Hillary Clinton’s Twitter feed.
About the author
I am the sports editor for the Macleay Newsroom. I enjoy cooking and watching sport intently.
