Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made a public appearance like never before, sporting a sporty outfit and playing basketball. He hosted American basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal in Istanbul on Tuesday, in a meeting that has drawn attention and surprised public opinion.
The meeting took place at the Anadolu Efes Stadium, where Erdogan and O'Neal appeared in a relaxed atmosphere, far from official protocols. Dressed in sportswear, they shot several times at the basket and then exchanged signed basketballs, giving a symbolic message of friendship and sportsmanship.
Shaquille O'Neal's presence in Turkey is not unusual. The American star has visited the country several times in recent years, not only for sporting activities, but also for his passion for music, performing as a DJ in Istanbul and Antalya. The Erdogan-O'Neal meeting was interpreted as a symbolic moment that unites sports, culture and soft diplomacy, highlighting the role of sports as a bridge between countries and public figures.
🏀🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/pFlW4f8XTT
- Recep Tayyip Erdogan (@RTErdogan) January 20, 2026
