Tensions between Europe and the United States escalated into the realm of sports on Sunday when a spectator interrupted the national anthem during an NBA game in London, shouting, “Leave Greenland alone.” The incident occurred as actress Vanessa Williams performed the Star-Spangled Banner before the Memphis Grizzlies faced the Orlando Magic at the O2 Arena, eliciting applause and cheers from various sections of the crowd.
This outburst follows recent comments from former President Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on numerous European countries, including the UK, unless the United States is granted the opportunity to purchase Greenland. Over the weekend, Trump indicated plans to levy a 10% tariff on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland starting February 1, with the rate set to increase to 25% by June.
European leaders have voiced their opposition to Trump’s demands, emphasizing that Greenland is an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark and should be determined by the Greenlandic people and the Danes. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated, “Applying tariffs on allies for pursuing the collective security of NATO allies is completely wrong. We will of course be pursuing this directly with the US administration.”
The heckling at the game is indicative of a broader dissatisfaction among sports fans with Trump’s foreign policy. In recent months, Canadian sports enthusiasts have booed the Star-Spangled Banner at various basketball and hockey games in response to Trump’s comments about potentially making Canada a “51st state” and increasing tariffs on its goods. Additionally, the former president has experienced similar reactions domestically; he was met with boos at a Washington Commanders game this season and faced “lock him up” chants during the 2019 World Series.
The crowd’s reaction at the game exemplifies the intersection of sports and politics, highlighting how fans are increasingly using public venues to voice their opinions on significant geopolitical issues. This trend could pave the way for more instances where sports serve as a platform for political expression amidst evolving international relations.