New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady will not attend the Republican National Convention in Cleveland later in this month.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter tweeted Tuesday morning that despite both Brady and Donald Trump considering each other “friends,” Brady will not be among the athletes and celebrities who will speak or perform at the convention at the presumptive Republican nominee’s invitation.
Despite speculation to contrary, Pats QB Tom Brady will not be attending Republican National Convention in Cleveland this month, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 5, 2016
Trump has shown his support for Brady as he battles his four-game suspension stemming from the “Deflategate” scandal, including opening a Rhode Island rally in April by calling for everyone to “leave Tom Brady alone.”
Brady is not the first high-profile sports figure to have to address rumors about being part of the convention.
In late June, former NFL coach and player Mike Ditka said he had “no idea” where rumors of his attendance started, though he would speak at the convention if requested by Trump.
Trump himself had to dispell the notion that former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson would be there, and he used the opportunity to attack the media as well.
Iron Mike Tyson was not asked to speak at the Convention though I’m sure he would do a good job if he was. The media makes everything up!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 29, 2016
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Ed Bouchette that he considers Trump an “acquaintance,” but he has no desire to endorse Trump or speak at the convention.
Roethlisberger called Trump an “acquaintance.” They have golfed together and Trump has called to congratulate him after certain games.
— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) June 11, 2016
Roethlisberger told me he will not attend the Republican convention and will nor endorse nor speak for the candidate.
— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) June 11, 2016
