Macron’s sunglasses at Davos spark buzz

French President Emmanuel Macron drew widespread attention on Wednesday when he appeared wearing dark sunglasses indoors while addressing the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.

The unusual sight quickly became a talking point inside the hall and on social media.

However, reports clarified that Macron’s decision was not a fashion statement or symbolic gesture, but was driven by a medical condition affecting his eye.

According to a report by a US newspaper, President Macron wore blue aviator-style sunglasses due to an eye issue.

During his 18-minute speech, he did not publicly explain the reason for wearing the glasses.

The sunglasses were first noticed last week when Macron addressed France’s armed forces on New Year’s Day, during which swelling was visible in his right eye.

At that time, he briefly removed the glasses and told the audience that while the condition might not look pleasant, it was harmless.

French media later reported that the president had suffered a subconjunctival hemorrhage, a condition caused by the rupture of a small blood vessel in the eye.

Medical experts said the condition can result from minor trauma, severe coughing or sneezing, high blood pressure, or the use of blood-thinning medication, and usually resolves on its own within two weeks without treatment.

Despite the medical explanation, some social media users speculated that Macron’s sunglasses carried a political message, suggesting they symbolized a tough stance against potential US tariffs on French wine and champagne or comments related to Greenland.

Observers also recalled that Macron has previously used clothing choices to convey messages, notably in 2022 when he wore a turtleneck sweater during Europe’s energy crisis to encourage moderation and restraint.

Others online humorously compared Macron’s look to Tom Cruise’s character in “Top Gun”, while some were reminded of former US President Joe Biden, known for frequently wearing aviator sunglasses.

According to the report, the French president’s office has not issued an official statement on the matter so far.