Emmanuel Macron drew attention on Wednesday when he appeared wearing dark sunglasses indoors while addressing the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
The unusual appearance quickly became a topic of discussion inside the conference hall and on social media. Later reports clarified that the sunglasses were not a fashion statement or political signal, but were worn due to a medical condition affecting the president’s eye.
According to a report in a US newspaper, Macron wore blue aviator-style sunglasses because of an eye issue. During his 18-minute speech, he did not offer any public explanation for wearing them.
The sunglasses were first noticed last week when Macron addressed France’s armed forces on New Year’s Day. At the time, swelling was visible in his right eye. He briefly removed the glasses and told the audience that while the condition did not look pleasant, it was harmless.
French media later reported that the president had suffered a subconjunctival haemorrhage, caused by the rupture of a small blood vessel in the eye. Medical experts say the condition can be triggered by minor injury, heavy coughing or sneezing, high blood pressure, or the use of blood-thinning medication, and usually clears on its own within about two weeks without treatment.
Despite the medical explanation, speculation surfaced online, with some users suggesting the sunglasses carried a political message. These claims linked the look to France’s stance on possible US tariffs on wine and champagne, or to remarks connected with Greenland.
Others pointed out that Macron has previously used clothing choices to convey symbolic messages, such as in 2022 when he wore a turtleneck sweater during Europe’s energy crisis to signal restraint.
Meanwhile, lighter reactions also emerged online, with some comparing his look to Top Gun star Tom Cruise, while others were reminded of former US President Joe Biden, who is often seen wearing aviator sunglasses.
