Basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal is not as tough as he looks.
The seven-foot tall former NBA star attempted to enter the White House during his visit to Washington Friday, but was apparently turned away by security guards.
Shaq, who chronicled his D.C. excursions via Twitter and Tout video program, donned a wife-beater tank top and yellow cap during his attempt to see President Obama. Speaking to the camera, Shaq said, “I need your help. I’m in Washington, D.C. Do you think I can stand in front of the White House and get into the White House and see Obama? Or do you think I will be denied?” (Shaquille O’Neal announces his retirement after 19 seasons)
After being rejected, O’Neal expressed disappointment in another video: “Here I am. The White House is behind me. I’m trying to see Obama … I just went to see the people over there and they said, ‘Shaq, we’re sorry we can’t let you in, brother.’ Guess I’ll have to see you next time Obama. I still love you sir.”
Shaq could potentially meet the president during a future D.C. trip, but the four-time NBA champion was visibly crushed about the let down nonetheless.
“I’m sad I can’t see President Obama … Whyyyyy?! Obama!” Shaq said in a video from his car, whimpering to Rihanna’s song “Unfaithful.”
Shaq may not have gotten into the White House, but he’s still loved at Italian eatery Buca di Beppo. He tweeted Friday, “couldnt get in da white house club but im still VIP in da @bucadibeppo eclub. love me sum #shaqhetti”
WATCH: Shaq pretends to cry over White House rejection