Elon Musk's Grok responds to a theory sparked by photo showing unusual detail in Donald Trump's trousers

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By Phoebe Egoroff

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President Donald Trump, 78, was declared to be in “excellent health” following his annual physical exam in April 2025, according to a report released by his medical team. However, recent images of Trump have ignited widespread speculation online, with some social media users suggesting he may be wearing a Foley catheter.

Screenshot 2025-06-11 at 10.47.18.jpgPhotos from recent Trump appearances have sparked concern among supporters. Credit: X/@TheWhiteHouse

The rumors stem from two particular moments: Trump's appearance at a UFC championship fight in New Jersey and a separate image taken at the White House. In both instances, users pointed to a visible bulge down one leg of his trousers, suggesting the outline resembled tubing.

“I really think Donald Trump is wearing some kind of urine collection contraption,” one user commented.

“That line down his pants? Not a crease. It’s tubing,” one viral post read.

Others speculated that the bulge might instead indicate a leg or knee brace. “Exoskeleton leg braces?” one X user proposed, while another suggested: “Knee brace for a partially torn ligament… Trump does not have time right now for surgery.”

Another user theorized: “Those are leg braces to stabilise him. It’s why he never wears shorts anymore.”

Another viral post from Alice Vaughn, viewed over two million times, said: “Trump is absolutely wearing a Foley catheter. That line down his pants? Not a crease. It’s tubing.”

Adding to the speculation, undated photos of Trump on a golf course showing a similar bulge circulated online. Some users tagged Elon Musk’s Grok AI assistant, asking it to weigh in.


The AI responded by emphasizing a lack of evidence: “There’s no confirmation that Donald Trump has ‘Bungalow Legs,’ a humorous, non-medical term. Speculation about a bulge in his trouser leg, possibly suggesting a catheter or brace, lacks credible evidence,” Grok noted. “It could simply be wrinkles or lighting. Without verified medical information, such claims remain unsubstantiated.”

Grok gave similar responses to multiple inquiries, cautioning against drawing conclusions based solely on images or internet commentary.

The renewed focus on Trump’s health followed a brief stumble on Sunday as he ascended the stairs of Air Force One in New Jersey, shortly after storms passed through the Bedminster area. Trump quickly regained his balance, and no injury was reported.


Health-related questions about Trump have circulated before. In 2024, he underwent a colonoscopy that revealed a benign polyp and a condition known as diverticulosis. His April 2025 physical also noted a weight loss of 20 pounds since his 2020 presidential physical, dropping from 244 to 224 pounds.

Despite the ongoing speculation, no official source has confirmed any serious health issues or need for medical devices. Experts continue to urge caution when evaluating online health rumors, especially those involving public figures.

Featured image credit: Andrew Harnik / Getty Images.