Barack Obama attends Los Angeles Clippers game solo as Michelle's absence fuels split rumors

Seated alongside Clippers owner and his wife, Barack Obama appeared in high spirits, waving to fans and receiving a customized Clippers jersey
PUBLISHED MAR 7, 2025
Barack Obama was spotted without his wife Michelle during an LA Clippers game (Getty Images)
Barack Obama was spotted without his wife Michelle during an LA Clippers game (Getty Images)

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA: Michelle Obama's absence from her husband Barack Obama’s side at a recent NBA game has sparked fresh divorce rumors, especially after a subtle three-word hint that seemed to fuel speculation about their relationship.

On Wednesday, March 5, former president Obama was spotted at the NBA game between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Detroit Pistons, but his wife was notably absent.



 

Barack Obama's solo game appearance fuels divorce speculation

Barack Obama attended the game alone, seated with Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and his wife Connie Snyder. His solo appearance at the Intuit Dome raised eyebrows, particularly as the former first lady was nowhere to be seen in the stands.

Despite the intense public attention, Obama appeared in high spirits, waving to the crowd of 18,000 fans during an interval and receiving a warm reception when introduced.

However, many were left questioning his wife’s absence, especially in the context of ongoing rumors surrounding their marriage.

Former President Barack Obama is presented a jersey during the game between the LA Clippers and the Detroit Pistons with LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer at Intuit Dome on March 05, 2025 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)
Former President Barack Obama is presented a jersey during the game between the LA Clippers and the Detroit Pistons with LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer at Intuit Dome on March 05, 2025 in Inglewood, California (Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)

Over the past few months, the couple has been the subject of speculation, with rumors about a potential divorce surfacing. The rumors reached a fever pitch when a source shared that Michelle and Barack have been "living separate lives," which many interpreted as a hint toward the state of their relationship.

The message, “living separate lives,” quickly became a talking point, with many wondering if it was a reflection of the couple’s private life. This cryptic post seemed to add fuel to the fire, despite their previous public displays of affection.

Valentine’s Day messages from Michelle and Barack Obama 

On Valentine's Day, Michelle shared a heartfelt post with a selfie alongside Barack, writing: “If there’s one person I can always count on, it’s you, @BarackObama. You’re my rock. Always have been. Always will be. Happy Valentine’s Day, honey!”


 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Michelle Obama (@michelleobama)


 

Barack responded with his affectionate message, stating: “Thirty-two years together and you still take my breath away. Happy Valentine’s Day, @MichelleObama!”


 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Barack Obama (@barackobama)


 

Despite these public expressions of love, the couple’s recent behavior has left many wondering about the true state of their marriage. Barack was also recently seen having dinner with their daughters, Malia and Sasha, without Michelle.

This, combined with the former first lady’s absence at the NBA game, has led to further speculation.

Adding to the intrigue, last October, actress Jennifer Aniston publicly addressed rumors that she and Barack had been in a relationship. The rumors had made Michelle feel "betrayed," especially when a popular podcast suggested that the Obamas were "living separate lives" and that Barack and Jennifer had a full-blown affair, Irish Star reported.

Barack Obama (L) greets former first lady Michelle Obama as he arrives to speak on stage during the second day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center on August 20, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Delegates, politicians, and Democratic Party supporters are gathering in Chicago, as current Vice President Kamala Harris is named her party's presidential nominee. The DNC takes place from August 19-22. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Barack Obama (L) greets former first lady Michelle Obama as he arrives to speak on stage during the second day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center on August 20, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

However, Jennifer firmly denied the claims, stating that she had only met Barack once and that she knew Michelle "more than him."

Barack's appearance at the NBA game on Wednesday—without Michelle—further fueled these ongoing rumors. Despite the scrutiny, he seemed to enjoy the game, even receiving a customized Clippers jersey with "Obama" and "44" on the back, a gesture that seemed to offer a brief distraction from the increasing attention on his personal life.

Internet reacts to Barack and Michelle Obama's divorce rumors

In response to recent speculation regarding Barack and Michelle Obama's marriage, fans have taken to social media to defend the couple, highlighting their enduring commitment and debunking unfounded rumors. This came after Barack attended a recent NBA game solo.

A user said, "Maybe she just doesn't like basketball."



 

Another added, "Michelle knows what’s coming…..she (he) was always smarter than Barack."



 

A third commentator quetioned, "I mean, after you're in your 60s, kids grown, enough money to do what you want every single day, how much time are you going to spend with your spouse?"



 

Another added, "They don’t have to divorce just look at the Clintons. Many political couples just live separately and show up together at significant events."



 

Some took to the New York Post's comment section to express their support for Barack and Michelle Obama.

"Melania doesn't go everywhere with Donald. He's often seen at fights and games without her. Husbands and wives aren't glued to the hip.  And who knows or who cares about their marital situation.  How does it affect any of us?  Could simply be that like every other married couple on the planet, they don't do every single tiny little thing together," said a supporter.

A person said, "Come on people. She doesn't have to go with him to every event. Maybe she doesn't not like basketball. My husband goes to lots of events without me because there are times where I just don't want to go. Does not mean that we are getting a divorce."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.

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