Former World No.1 Jimmy Connors made the news over the weekend, and not for any work related to tennis. The retired American tennis star was confused with "Jimmy Carter" by presidential candidate Donald Trump during a mixer, which generated mixed responses.
On Saturday, Trump held a campaign rally in Wildwood, New Jersey, where he tried to take aim at current President Joe Biden. While addressing his rival, Trump attempted to explain that Carter, the 39th president, had a "bad reputation" during his time in office, but claimed he is considered "brilliant" in comparison to Biden. However, Trump mistakenly referred to Jimmy Carter as "Jimmy Connors".
"Jimmy Connors is— He's also happy," said Trump. "Jimmy is a very happy man. Both of them because, you know what, they want him out. Jimmy Carter had a bad reputation. Right now, he is considered a totally brilliant president by comparison (to Joe Biden). Right now he is a totally brilliant president by comparison."
After a few days of silence, Connors finally responded. The five-time US Open champion took to Twitter to share a photo of his face edited onto what appears to be an old Carter campaign button.
"Who knew?! #Connors2024," wrote the American.
Subsequently, Trump's spokesperson Steven Cheung sent out a statement in an attempt to explain the former president's gaffe.
"President Trump said Crooked Joe Biden has overtaken Jimmy Carter as worst president ever, just like he has done numerous times on the campaign trail," read the statement.
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