The number on Donald Trump's sleeve has angered some of his critics. Photo / AP
The number on Donald Trump's sleeve has angered some of his critics. Photo / AP
While the internet was losing it over Donald Trump's personal notes at a "listening session" with survivors of the Florida high school shooting β some noticed a bizarre quirk in US President's clothing.
In the debate-stirring close-up image that surfaced on Thursday, Trump appears to have the number 45 embroideredinto his shirt's crisp, white cuff.
It is presumably a reference to Trump's prestigious title as the 45th President of the United States. However, critics of the President on social media have reacted negatively to the embroidery β one commentator called it "narcissistic and self-absorbed".
The number on Donald Trump's sleeve has angered some of his critics. Photo / AP
The notes Trump is holding in the picture also attracted a swift backlash on social media.
The first point states: "What would you most want me to know about your experience?" Other points are obscured but the fifth and final point says simply: "I hear you".
Many commentators wondered why the President needs notes to remind him to be empathetic. He was also criticised for considering the possibility of arming teachers as a way of protecting students from gunmen.
However, eagle-eyed critics also took aim at Trump over the numbers on his sleeves.
— Zachary Sparks π°π½ππ³οΈβπβπΌ (@ZSparks1996) February 22, 2018
Itβs actually βStep 45β in Trumpβs 102 step instructions on how to dress himself: β45: insert arm in shirt (not jacket) sleeve, labeled β45ββ https://t.co/bIqjrNegu9
And, Trump is not the only one who has been accused of blowing his own trumpet through his choice of clothing.
In the sporting world various stars have been accused of similar numerical crimes against their clothing and possessions.
Tennis legend Roger Federer has stirred debate on several occasions with his shoes. In 2010, he wore Nikes with the skyline of Manhattan and the number five β representing his five US Open wins.
Roger Federer's custom shoes in 2010. Photo / Getty Images
Since then, he has worn shoes with similar symbols representing his various title wins at grand slam competitions such as the Australian Open and Wimbledon. The shoes also bear the legend's initials.
Shane Warne also made a bold statement in one of his Melbourne homes. In an expensive addition to his palatial property in Brighton, the cricket personality included a 10-car underground garage and a swimming pool emblazoned with Warne's playing number, 23.
Shane Warne made a statement with one of his properties. Photo / Third Party Ad Hoc
There are more elite sports stars who have worn their legacies on their sleeves. Some have even passed it on to their children through their names.
Trinidadian cricketer Dwayne Bravo named his daughter Dwaynice and son DJ Junior.
They are also known by the nicknames "Monk", "Red", "Joe" "Big Wheel" and "Little George". His five daughters are Michi, Georgetta, Freda George, Natalie, and Leola.
The criticism of Trump comes after a school shooting on Valentine's Day at Marjory Stoneman High School in Parkland, Florida killed 17 people. Nineteen-year-old Nikolas Cruz has been charged with 17 counts of premeditated murder.
The shooting has stirred anger among Americans, particularly the families who lost loved ones. Trump listened intently to the raw emotion and pledged action, including the possibility of arming teachers.
Trump said he was considering backing proposals to promote concealed carrying of weapons by trained school employees to respond to campus shootings before law enforcement arrives.
