Tyler Reddick has addressed online reaction to a moment involving Michael Jordan after the Daytona 500. The basketball icon, who co-owns 23XI Racing, was celebrating with Reddick’s six-year-old son, Beau, following the major victory.
During the celebration, Jordan was seen making small pinching motions toward the back of Beau’s T-shirt, which appeared wet. He also briefly grazed his fingers along the back of the child’s legs. Some social media users questioned the gestures, though there was no indication of wrongdoing.
The moment quickly spread online, prompting speculation and debate. Clips circulated widely, with commenters offering differing interpretations of what they saw.
After winning the Daytona 500—often called “The Great American Race”—alongside Jordan in Florida, Reddick made it clear he saw nothing inappropriate in the interaction. He addressed the situation during an appearance on Stephen A. Smith’s SiriusXM radio show.
“From my perspective, I’ve gotten to know Michael and his family very well over the years,” Reddick said. “I don’t see what other people see when it comes to this.”
He emphasized that the focus of the day was celebration. The win marked the biggest moment of his career and a milestone for both families. Reddick said he preferred to remember the joy in victory lane rather than online speculation.
Reddick also mentioned how happy Jordan’s wife, Yvette, and the entire group looked during the celebration. For him, the shared excitement outweighed any internet backlash.
Representatives for Reddick reportedly dismissed the controversy as well. Ultimately, Reddick’s response centered on perspective—choosing to focus on a career-defining victory and family celebration rather than social media debate.