The Philadelphia Eagles reportedly declined to visit President Donald Trump at the White House, multiple outlets reported on Sunday (February 23).
The Sun had previously reported that the Eagles planned to decline Trump's invitation even prior to winning Super Bowl LIX on February 9, with "a well-placed insider" claiming that discussions between players and the front office resulted in a "massive no" when asked about visiting the White House. The story resurfaced on Sunday (February 23) amid speculation that the team would once again decline the White House invitation, as was the case after winning Super Bowl LII in 2018.
"The Philadelphia Eagles are unable to come to the White House with their full team to be celebrated tomorrow," Trump said in 2017 during his first of two non-consecutive presidential terms via USA TODAY. "They disagree with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem, hand on heart, in honor of the great men and women of our military and the people of our country.
"The Eagles wanted to send a smaller delegation, but the 1,000 fans planning to attend the event deserve better. These fans are still invited to the White House to be part of a different type of ceremony — one that will honor our great country, pay tribute to the heroes who fight to protect it, and loudly and proudly play the National Anthem. I will be there at 3:00 p.m. with the United States Marine Band and the United States Army Chorus to celebrate America."
The Eagles issued their own statement following their decision in 2018.
"It has been incredibly thrilling to celebrate our first Super Bowl Championship," the team said via USA TODAY. "Watching the entire Eagles community come together has been an inspiration. We are truly grateful for all of the support we have received and we are looking forward to continuing our preparations for the 2018 season."