3 minutes read
Reason 'Melania body double' conspiracy theories are emerging after World Cup final
.webp_SmgFsc?tr=w-96,f-webp,q-70){kind=small}
Michelle H.
A familiar conspiracy theory has resurfaced on social media after observers noticed First Lady Melania Trump wearing large protective sunglasses at the World Cup final. Melania joined her husband, President Donald Trump, at the New York New Jersey Stadium to watch Spain defeat Argentina 1-0 in extra time. While the president faced a mix of boos when he took the pitch to hand out medals, the first lady watched the event alongside him from a private viewing box.
The choice of eyewear quickly sparked speculation across the internet, with various users claiming she was actually a body double. The theories ignored the fact that the sun was glaring down on the stadium, choosing instead to analyze her appearance. Photos from later in the match showed the first lady without her glasses, proving she was indeed the one in attendance.
The internet reaction was swift as the match broadcast frequently showed the couple. One user on X, formerly known as Twitter, wrote, "The sunglasses ...so .. it's possible this is the Melania double," while another added, "That's Fake Melania, she has huge sunglasses." A third observer questioned the reality of the situation, writing, "Is anyone really sure that's not the FAKE Melania behind the 3D glasses?"
Origins of the body double rumors
This long-running online theory originally began when Donald Trump first took office. Speculation grew intensely during a 2017 visit to a US Secret Service training facility in Maryland. During the trip, Trump told reporters, "My wife Melania, who happens to be right here."
Conspiracy theorists claimed the statement was an attempt to convince the media that a stand-in was not being used, despite the fact that she later removed her sunglasses to reveal her identity.
The first lady has a well-documented fondness for large eyewear, even choosing to wear sunglasses at night. In one instance, she was pictured leaving Air Force One in February, prompting Trump to joke that there was "a movie star" onboard. That fashion choice led to similar claims that her face looked different and that the nighttime eyewear was a definitive giveaway.
Past fashion choices fuel internet speculation
Minor details have frequently triggered these online rumors over the years. Last year, critics accused her of using a double simply because she wore flats instead of her usual high heels. Despite the constant social media buzz surrounding her wardrobe, there are no facts to back up any of the body double claims.
White House officials have been contacted for comment regarding the latest cycle of speculation.
Meanwhile, football fans are already looking forward to the next tournament. Morocco, Portugal, and Spain will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will celebrate the tournament's 100th anniversary.
The event will feature centenary matches in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, making it the longest World Cup in history at 44 days.