NEW YORK – New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick said Monday he would not accept the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Donald Trump as planned this week after the “tragic” riot at the US Capitol last Wednesday.
Belichick, who has guided the Patriots to six Super Bowl titles, said in a written statement that he was “flattered” to be considered for the highest civilian honor in the United States but had decided against accepting.
“Recently, I was offered the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which I was flattered by out of respect for what the honor represents and admiration for prior recipients,” Belichick said in the statement.
“Subsequently, the…
