Whispers of a potential rift between Barack and Michelle Obama have gripped social media following Michelle's unexpected absence from two major events.

This marks the second time Michelle Obama has skipped a high-profile event featuring the rest of the living former and current presidents, along with the former first ladies.

Social media users are suggesting that the couple may be experiencing marital difficulties, especially following their absence from public functions together in recent weeks.

The couple first met while working in a law firm in Chicago in 1989 and got married in 1992. They have two daughters together, Malia and Sasha Obama.