Donald Trump slams Drew Brees after NFL star apologised for his controversial comments about ‘disrespecting flag’

DONALD TRUMP reignited the Drew Brees racism storm by slamming his decision to say sorry.

NFL star Brees apologised for blasting players who “disrespect the flag” by kneeling during the national anthem to protest against racial injustice.

But US President Trump criticised Brees’ U-turn — which prompted a backlash from the New Orleans Saints ace and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.

Trump said: “Brees should not have taken back his stance.

“There are other things you can protest, but not our American Flag — NO KNEELING!”

However, Brees hit back, writing: “This is not about the American Flag.

“We must shift our attention to the real issues of systemic racial injustice, economic oppression, police brutality and judicial and prison reform.

“We are at a critical juncture in our history!”

Social injustice has been a source of NFL tension since ex-San Francisco 49ers star Colin Kaepernick began kneeling before games in 2016.

The US is gripped by protests over police brutality following the death of George Floyd in Minnesota last week.

Goodell declared: “We admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest.

“Black lives matter. It has been a difficult time for our country, in particular black people. We, the NFL condemn racism and the systematic oppression of black people.

“Without black players there would be no NFL and the protests around the country are emblematic of the centuries of silence, inequality and oppression of black players, coaches, fans and staff.

“We are listening, and I will reach out to players who have raised their voices and others on how we can improve and go forward for a better and more united NFL family.”

Meanwhile, basketball king Michael Jordan has pledged $100million (£79m) to fight for racial equality and social justice.

And America’s top golf official has vowed to be “part of the solution” to racism.

PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan told Sky: “Anything I’m going to say I want to make sure it’s part of the solution. I’m not sure what the solution is right now.”