Donald Trump’s recent appearance at an event near the White House quickly became a topic of online discussion, but not for the reasons he might have expected.
As Trump took the stage, attention shifted to his left hand, which appeared bruised and discolored, sparking widespread speculation even before he could finish accepting his award.
On December 5, Trump was on stage to receive the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize from FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
As Trump reached out for a handshake at the Kennedy Center, observers focused on his swollen hand, anticipating his typical firm handshake. However, the forceful grip was noticeably absent this time.
“Trump is being dominated in that handshake. His entire hand is being gripped like a parent pulling a toddler,” commented one person on Threads. Another noted, “His hand was too swollen for his usual handshake.”
Viewers connected this moment to Trump’s signature handshake style, often used to assert dominance. Despite expectations, Trump offered a gentle grip to New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, reminiscent of a past encounter with Vladimir Putin where a similar subdued handshake occurred.
Getty images captured Infantino and Trump shaking hands, with Trump’s right hand showing a bandage touched by Infantino’s thumb.
“What’s wrong with Grandpa’s hand?” questioned one user on X.
Speculation arose about Trump’s health, with some suggesting edema, a condition causing swelling due to fluid retention. Concerns included the swelling moving from his feet and legs to his hands and abdomen.
Further scrutiny followed when Trump lifted the medal, revealing a bruise on his left hand, prompting more questions.
“Is his left hand now puffy and bruised?” asked one observer, while another speculated about medical procedures.
The conversation revived past discussions about the size of Trump’s hands, a long-standing topic of public interest.
Despite his team’s assurances of his “excellent health,” scrutiny over Trump’s physical condition continues, with videos of his walk and posture circulating online. The recent event added to the ongoing debate, overshadowing the award ceremony itself.
