The United States Women’s Soccer Team (USWNT) is no stranger to being in the spotlight, not just for their athletic prowess but also for their off-the-field decisions with the national anthem controversy making waves
Ahead of their recent World Cup match against Sweden, six players made the choice to remain silent during the national anthem. This has, once again, put the team at the forefront of debates concerning patriotism and freedom of expression.
Who are the USWNT soccer players who refused to sing the US national anthem and controversy explained
During the crucial round of 16 tie at AAMI Park, a section of the USWNT, including Captain Lindsey Horan, Alex Morgan, Alyssa Naeher, and Julie Ertz, resonated their commitment to the country by singing the national anthem. Their voices symbolized unity, passion, and the spirit of representing their homeland.
Perhaps if @USWNT’s players were more focused on practice rather than blue-haired, anti-USA, woke policies, then maybe….just maybe this goal wouldn’t have been embarrassingly missed.
Should just take USA out of the team name if you’re not proud to represent America. pic.twitter.com/XPztQ23BiJ
— Olivia Krolczyk (@oliviakrolczyk_) August 7, 2023
The silent protest
Contrastingly, Andi Sullivan, Sophia Smith, Naomi Girma, Emily Fox, Trinity Rodman, and Crystal Dunn opted for silence. Their muted stance during the Star-Spangled Banner has opened up various interpretations and dialogues, probing into the motives behind their decision and the broader implications of athletes utilizing their influential platforms for societal issues.
The reason the players do it is as a form of protest against racial injustice and police violence, with the aim of provoking reflection about the problems in North America and it is not the first time action has been taken, either.
Megan Rapinoe is the torchbearer of controversy
Megan Rapinoe, a household name not just in soccer but also in activism, found herself being discussed in connection with the silent stance, despite not being in the starting lineup against Sweden. Megyn Kelly, a prominent American media personality, pointed fingers at Rapinoe, implying her influence might have played a role in the players’ decision.
Rapinoe has been an ardent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality, often drawing attention with her bold stands. In 2019, she had openly announced her decision never to sing the national anthem or put her hand over her heart, which many believe has set a precedent for some members of the team.
Public has divided opinions
The USWNT’s silent gesture during the anthem has evoked a spectrum of reactions. Some champion the players for exercising their right to peaceful protest and for raising awareness on pressing social issues. On the other hand, a section believes that this silence speaks of disrespect to the nation they stand to represent.
While the debate rages on, on the field, the team faced a dramatic turn of events. Even after a dominant performance against Sweden, the USWNT couldn’t clinch the victory. The fate of the match rested on a tense penalty shootout that favored the Swedish team.
Regardless of the match’s outcome, the USWNT’s silent gesture is a testament to the evolving role of athletes, not just as sportspeople but as influential voices in societal discourse.
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