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DC United's English star Wayne Rooney insists his visit to the White House this past week had nothing to do with politics, or a show of support for President Trump.
England legend Wayne Rooney's visit to the White House turned some heads this past week, but the DC United forward insisted his visit was nothing more than a "once-in-a-lifetime-visit."
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The 33 year-old Rooney visited the U.S. capitol's landmark with his wife Coleen and their four sons; Kai, Klay, Kit, and Cass as part of the annual White House kids' party, taking pictures with President Trump's 12 year-old son Barron.
The president's youngest son is an ardent football fan, and is involved with the youth team of D.C. United, who Rooney signed for in July for a reported US$13m. The 120-times capped former England international shot the U.S. team to the MLS playoffs, and netted 12 goals in 21 starts - an incredible feat for a team who were bottom of the Eastern Conference before Rooney signed.
The former Everton and Manchester United marksman joined his family in a VIP tour of the premises, which included a visit to the private living quarters, according to ESPN.
#DCU’s Wayne Rooney a guest of honor at the Trump White House’s Christmas party. Gotta say, I’m real conflicted on this. #MLS https://t.co/Y8YBub4hPu pic.twitter.com/2LVC2KUYvl
— Pablo Maurer (@MLSist) December 11, 2018
According to a source close to the Rooney's, "Coleen and Wayne were stunned when they received a personal invite from Donald inviting them to the White House. It wasn't political."
The source continued, "For them this was a chance to go inside one of the most iconic buildings in the world and give their children this experience of being there for the Christmas party, which is always spectacular. It's an extra special welcome to Washington for them. It's an experience none of them will ever forget."
Rooney's arrival in the U.S. has generated more than media attention, as it was revealed by the publication Sports Pro that the arrival of the talismanic striker resulted in US$4.5m in social media value for D.C. United's shirt sponsor, Leidos.
Furthermore, sponsorship valuation company, GumGum revealed that Rooney's on-field performances had played a key role in the benefit to the MLS Franchise's commercial partners.
Speaking to Sports Pro, GumGum vice president of strategy and partnerships, Jeff Katz said, "Wayne Rooney’s not just a name. His play was huge. The fact that he performed so well is a big deal as well, from a media value perspective. Because of his fame and social media presence, when he does something exciting, it raises DC United’s profile, influence and benefit."
Rooney's form has silenced critics that claimed he only headed to the MLS for a last big payday, with the Liverpool-born veteran finishing as the clubs' top scorer despite only signing in July.
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