'Concealed anger': Macron’s clenched fist after Brigitte ‘slap’ goes viral
A photo of Emmanuel Macron with a clenched fist after landing in Vietnam has surfaced, just hours after a viral video showed his wife Brigitte pushing his face.
French President Emmanuel Macron has dismissed a viral video showing his wife Brigitte pushing his face away as mere “joking and teasing," but social media users are not convinced. The speculation intensified after a photo surfaced showing Macron with a clenched fist shortly after disembarking in Vietnam.

Viral Moment Caught on Camera
In the short video, Macron is seen emerging from an aircraft doorway when Brigitte’s hands suddenly reach out and press against his face, appearing to push or “slap” him. Macron looks momentarily startled but quickly composes himself and waves to the waiting media. The clip soon went viral, with many insisting the gesture wasn’t playful.
Macron Responds in Hanoi
Addressing reporters in Hanoi on Monday, Macron acknowledged the authenticity of the clip but criticized its interpretation
“There’s a video showing me joking and teasing my wife and somehow that becomes a sort of geo-planetary catastrophe, with people even coming up with theories to explain it,” he said. “The videos are all real, and yes, sometimes people tamper with them, but people are attributing all kinds of nonsense to them.”
Also Read: What is Brigitte Macron's net worth? A look at France's First Lady's assets and earnings
Clenched Fist Goes Viral
Adding to the controversy, a photo of Macron stepping off the plane with a visibly clenched fist has ignited further debate. Some social media users called it a "classic sign of concealed anger."
“Macron's left hand is in a white knuckle fist, a common sign of concealed anger. His face is also beyond serious,” one person commented on the photo.
Another wrote, “French President Macron tries to pretend to smile after the public slap from his wife Brigitte…But his clenched fist says it all—anger and embarrassment can't be hidden!”
A third person commented, "Macron tried to hide Brigitte's slap with a smile, but the Frenchman's clenched fist (rage/frustration) didn't lie..."
ABOUT THE AUTHORVaishnavi VaidyanathanVaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats. With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student. She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories. Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics. Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.Read More

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