‘God Saved Me’: Trump Reflects On Assassination Attempt, Says He Was Spared For Righteous Purpose

Last Updated:July 14, 2025, 09:54 IST

Trump reflected on the attempt on his life in Butler, Pennsylvania last year, thanking doctors, first responders, and rally attendees who helped guide others to safety.

Donald Trump is seen with with blood on his face surrounded by Secret Service agents as he was taken off the stage after an assassination attempt. (AFP)

On the first anniversary of the assassination attempt he survived, US President Donald Trump said, “God alone saved me that day for a righteous purpose," as he attended the FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium on Sunday. In a statement released after his return to Washington, Trump added, “It remains my firm conviction… to restore our beloved Republic to greatness and to rescue our Nation from those who seek its ruin."

The high-profile event, where Chelsea triumphed over Paris Saint-Germain with a dominant 3-0 win, served both as a commemoration and a show of strength. Trump and First Lady Melania were greeted with cheers — and a few boos — as they arrived just before the pre-match musical performances. From a stadium suite alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Trump watched the game with close allies and officials including Attorney General Pam Bondi, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, NFL star Tom Brady, and media magnate Rupert Murdoch.

Trump joined the Chelsea players on the field post-match, presenting the winners’ trophy and runner-up medals to PSG. The sporting spectacle also doubled as a quiet diplomatic moment: Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed plans to meet with Qatari officials present at the match, as ceasefire negotiations with Hamas continue.

Throughout the evening, Trump reflected on the attempt on his life in Butler, Pennsylvania last year, thanking doctors, first responders, and rally attendees who helped guide others to safety. “These men and women arrived at the rally grounds as ordinary Americans, but left as heroes," he said.

Looking ahead, Trump has said he intends to attend multiple World Cup 2026 matches across the US, Canada, and Mexico, despite rising diplomatic tensions with neighbouring countries over trade and immigration. True to form, Trump dismissed the tension, stating earlier this year, “Tension’s a good thing… it’ll make the tournament more exciting."

News world ‘God Saved Me’: Trump Reflects On Assassination Attempt, Says He Was Spared For Righteous Purpose