French Leader Defends Image Amid Eye Issue
During the Davos World Economic Forum on Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron drew attention not only for his sharp criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on eight European countries over their opposition to his proposed Greenland acquisition, but also for his unusual eyewear choice.
Macron delivered his speech indoors wearing blue reflective aviator sunglasses, a style that immediately sparked curiosity on social media and in international press coverage. While he did not comment on his accessory during the speech, French media reported that the sunglasses were linked to an ongoing medical condition.
Eye Condition Behind Macron’s Sunglasses
The French leader had been photographed days earlier at a military event in southern France with a visibly red eye and wearing similar sunglasses. Speaking to troops, Macron minimized concerns, calling the issue “totally benign” and “completely insignificant.” He even joked about it, referring to his eye as “l’oeil du tigre” — the “eye of the tiger” — a nod to the Survivor song famously used in Rocky III.
According to French outlets, Macron appeared to suffer from a subconjunctival hemorrhage, a harmless condition caused by a broken blood vessel in the eye. It does not impact vision and typically heals within two weeks. It can result from vigorous sneezing, coughing, or eye rubbing, and is more common among individuals with hypertension or diabetes.
While sunglasses are not medically required for the condition, many choose to wear them to avoid drawing attention. French doctor and media commentator Jimmy Mohamed told RTL that Macron likely chose the aviators for aesthetic reasons, noting that as a public figure, he may prefer to avoid being photographed during recovery.
Social Media Reacts: From Jokes to Fashion Comparisons
Macron’s choice quickly became a trending topic. Some social media users playfully labeled him “kéké” — French slang for a show-off — while others compared him to a cyborg or joked that he was channeling Tom Cruise in Top Gun, the film credited with popularizing aviator sunglasses.
Macron Warns Against Growing Autocracy
Behind the fashion buzz, Macron used his Davos platform to warn of increasing global autocracy and the erosion of international law. He condemned the use of tariffs as leverage against territorial sovereignty and criticized the return of “imperial ambitions.”
Trump has separately threatened to impose 200% tariffs on French wine and champagne following France’s refusal to join his proposed “Board of Peace” for Gaza.
