In a moment that will be replayed for years to come, a routine celebration turned into an unforgettable scene when US Vice President JD Vance accidentally dropped the national championship trophy during the Ohio State football team’s visit tothe White House. What was meant to be a proud and polished ceremony in honor of the Buckeyes’ recent title win, became the source of unexpected comedy — and a viral internet moment.

A Presidential Photo Op Goes Off Script

The Buckeyes, Ohio State University’s storied football team, had gathered outside the White House alongside President Donald Trump and other dignitaries for a photo session to commemorate their national championship win. Spirits were high, with the Marine Corps Band playing in the background and players beaming with pride as they posed for the cameras. But just as Vice President JD Vance attempted to lift the national championship trophy for a celebratory display, disaster struck.

To the horror of players and onlookers, Vance lost his grip on the trophy. The top-heavy piece of hardware wobbled, slid from its base, and tumbled to the ground. Gasps echoed across the gathering as the base of the trophy rolled away, briefly interrupting the celebratory mood. Members of the team winced in disbelief while others watched in stunned silence. However, the band played on, keeping the atmosphere from descending into complete awkwardness.

NEW The College Football National Championship trophy falls off its stand as JD Vance lifts it up outside the White House.

The moment came during the Ohio State football team's visit to the White House.

Oops! pic.twitter.com/27FdiSJtgX

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) April 14, 2025

Social Media Spin: Vance’s Viral Moment

Never one to shy away from the spotlight or a clever quip, Vice President Vance took to social media shortly after the incident. In a self-deprecating and humorous post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “I didn’t want anyone after Ohio State to get the trophy, so I decided to break it.” The post quickly gained traction, spreading across sports and political circles alike, drawing laughter and mock sympathy from fans.

I didn’t want anyone after Ohio State to get the trophy so I decided to break it https://t.co/rS3Vw3BdO6

— JD Vance (@JDVance) April 14, 2025

Vance's comment poked fun at both the mishap and the fierce pride he has in his alma mater. Though the moment was unplanned and slightly embarrassing, the Vice President’s quick wit helped smooth over what could have been a cringe-worthy episode.

Pride, Alma Mater, and a Bit of Slapstick

JD Vance has long been a vocal supporter of Ohio State University. A graduate of OSU with a degree in political science and philosophy, Vance later earned a law degree from Yale. During the event, he wore his school pride with gusto — decked out in scarlet and gray and mingling confidently with the players and coaching staff. His visible enthusiasm was apparent throughout the visit.

While the incident might have drawn attention away from the team’s accomplishments, it also added a human and humorous twist to the ceremony. Vance’s impromptu attempt to fix the trophy and laugh off the incident further endeared him to some fans, who appreciated his relatability and light-hearted approach.

From “Oops” to Iconic

The moment, now dubbed by some online as the “Made in China Trophy Drop,” has since become a meme-worthy event, inspiring jokes, commentary, and even mock replays across social media. Sports fans and political commentators alike weighed in, with many noting that the spectacle added an unforgettable twist to an otherwise standard White House ceremony.

Though the trophy survived with minor damage, the scene will likely live in Buckeye lore. And while the team came to Washington, D.C., to be honored for their athletic excellence, Vice President Vance’s butterfingers — and his humor — stole the show.