The online discussions about the former U.S. president’s recent public appearance come just months after he experienced the loss of a loved one.
Barack Obama was spotted attending the Los Angeles Clippers vs. Detroit Pistons game on March 5, 2025, without his wife, Michelle Obama, who has remained out of the public eye.
At one point during the game, Barack was given a personalized Clippers jersey, which caught the attention of the crowd.
While conversing with Ballmer, cameras captured the moment, sparking online discussions about his solo outing without his wife of 32 years.
On Facebook, one person speculated, “They’re definitely having problems. She wasn’t with him at the inauguration nor at the funeral…something is up.”
“Maybe she doesn’t like sports..geez [sic],” another added.
Others, however, defended Michelle, posting on X, “Michelle Obama’s mother died less than a year ago. The former first lady might still be grieving that loss.”
As the conversation continued, people reflected more on the personal loss Michelle experienced last year.
In June 2024, Michelle shared the heartbreaking news of her mother’s passing on X, writing,
“My mom Marian Robinson was my rock, always there for whatever I needed. She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she pa:ss:ed away today. We wanted to offer some reflections on her remarkable life.”
Michelle’s choice to stay out of the public eye became more noticeable in the weeks before President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January 2025. It was reported that she would not attend the ceremony, while Barack planned to join the other former presidents.
Her absence raised questions, as she had attended similar events before. To address the matter, her spokesperson, Crystal Carson, stated People.
“Former First Lady Michelle Obama is not in attendance at President Jimmy’s National Funeral Service. Mrs. Obama sends her thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from the remarkable former President,” the statement said.
