The world of artificial intelligence is full of algorithms, innovation—and increasingly, ego clashes. One such feud that continues to capture attention is the cold war between OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Tesla boss Elon Musk. Once close allies who co-founded OpenAI with hopes of steering AI towards a safer, more democratic future, the two tech titans have now grown into sparring figures locked in a public battle of ideologies, corporate control, and personal digs.
The latest chapter in this high-profile standoff played out in a new interview with Bloomberg Television, where Altman was asked a seemingly simple question: "How is your relationship with Elon Musk right now?" His response? A coy smile followed by four pointed words: "How do you think?"
The reply, though brief, said plenty.
From co-founders to courtroom foes
Once upon a time, Musk and Altman shared a vision. In 2015, they joined hands to launch OpenAI as a non-profit entity that would democratize artificial intelligence and keep it from being monopolized by big corporations. Fast forward to today, and Musk has filed two lawsuits against the organization he helped birth—taking issue with OpenAI's shift to a capped for-profit model and its deepening ties with Microsoft. He’s accused the company of abandoning its original mission and has publicly derided its leadership.
Altman, for his part, hasn’t held back either. In past interviews, he’s said he feels “sorry” for Musk and hinted that the billionaire’s behavior stems from deep-seated insecurity. And when Musk mockingly offered a $97 billion buyout of OpenAI, Altman cheekily responded with a $9.7 billion “bid” to acquire Musk’s social media platform X.
"Elon busts up with everybody"
The Bloomberg interview didn’t stop at their rocky professional history. Altman was also asked to weigh in on Musk’s recent public spat with Donald Trump, which unfolded in a dramatic display of mudslinging on social media. “Elon busts up with everybody,” Altman quipped, shrugging with a tone that conveyed both amusement and resignation. “I mean, come on, that’s what he does.”
The casual remark struck a chord online, further fueling speculation about the depth of their personal rift and Altman’s growing confidence in navigating life as the face of OpenAI—no longer under Musk’s long shadow.
Politically homeless or just unimpressed?
Altman’s light jabs didn’t end there. When asked about Musk’s newly announced political venture, the so-called America Party, the OpenAI chief seemed almost disinterested. “I don’t know, I haven’t had a chance to read about it,” he said, adding with a shrug, “It’s like the America Party or something?” The lack of awareness—or perhaps deliberate detachment—was telling.
Pressed further on whether he’d consider donating to Musk’s political party, Altman didn’t flinch. “Outside of those words you just said, everything I know about the party,” he replied, drawing a clear line of disinterest in the initiative.
Two visions, one future
As AI continues to evolve and dominate global headlines, the Altman-Musk drama seems almost emblematic of a deeper philosophical divide: one man seeking cautious, collaborative development; the other driven by high-stakes disruption. The feud has spilled over from boardrooms and courtrooms into internet banter and meme culture. Yet, at its core, it reflects how personal relationships among tech’s elite can shape—and shake—the future of emerging technologies.
The latest chapter in this high-profile standoff played out in a new interview with Bloomberg Television, where Altman was asked a seemingly simple question: "How is your relationship with Elon Musk right now?" His response? A coy smile followed by four pointed words: "How do you think?"
The reply, though brief, said plenty.
From co-founders to courtroom foes
Once upon a time, Musk and Altman shared a vision. In 2015, they joined hands to launch OpenAI as a non-profit entity that would democratize artificial intelligence and keep it from being monopolized by big corporations. Fast forward to today, and Musk has filed two lawsuits against the organization he helped birth—taking issue with OpenAI's shift to a capped for-profit model and its deepening ties with Microsoft. He’s accused the company of abandoning its original mission and has publicly derided its leadership.
Altman, for his part, hasn’t held back either. In past interviews, he’s said he feels “sorry” for Musk and hinted that the billionaire’s behavior stems from deep-seated insecurity. And when Musk mockingly offered a $97 billion buyout of OpenAI, Altman cheekily responded with a $9.7 billion “bid” to acquire Musk’s social media platform X.
"Elon busts up with everybody"
The Bloomberg interview didn’t stop at their rocky professional history. Altman was also asked to weigh in on Musk’s recent public spat with Donald Trump, which unfolded in a dramatic display of mudslinging on social media. “Elon busts up with everybody,” Altman quipped, shrugging with a tone that conveyed both amusement and resignation. “I mean, come on, that’s what he does.”
The casual remark struck a chord online, further fueling speculation about the depth of their personal rift and Altman’s growing confidence in navigating life as the face of OpenAI—no longer under Musk’s long shadow.
Politically homeless or just unimpressed?
Altman’s light jabs didn’t end there. When asked about Musk’s newly announced political venture, the so-called America Party, the OpenAI chief seemed almost disinterested. “I don’t know, I haven’t had a chance to read about it,” he said, adding with a shrug, “It’s like the America Party or something?” The lack of awareness—or perhaps deliberate detachment—was telling.
Pressed further on whether he’d consider donating to Musk’s political party, Altman didn’t flinch. “Outside of those words you just said, everything I know about the party,” he replied, drawing a clear line of disinterest in the initiative.
Two visions, one future
As AI continues to evolve and dominate global headlines, the Altman-Musk drama seems almost emblematic of a deeper philosophical divide: one man seeking cautious, collaborative development; the other driven by high-stakes disruption. The feud has spilled over from boardrooms and courtrooms into internet banter and meme culture. Yet, at its core, it reflects how personal relationships among tech’s elite can shape—and shake—the future of emerging technologies.
You may also like
BREAKING: Llangollen International Eisteddfod axes concert after 'extraordinary medical incident'
ED searches farm neta among 'donkey route' agents in illegal immigration case
Horror 5-word instruction to plane passengers after trespasser dies sucked into engine
Lionesses restore faith with Netherlands thrashing as 'Barmy Army' take over pubs
I'm a weather expert - here's the exact temperature UK could be in real trouble
