VIDEO: Controversy Arises as US Women’s National Soccer Team Refuses to Sing National Anthem Against Portugal at the FIFA World Cup

Do you know how before big sports events, they always play the national anthem? Well, sometimes athletes don’t sing it in protest. It’s a controversial thing, and now it’s happening at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The US Women’s National Soccer Team has now made headlines because they didn’t sing their national anthem. Some people think it’s empowering, but others find it disrespectful.

The silence that has stirred controversy

During the pre-match ceremony against their third group stage match against Portugal, USWNT once again didn’t sing the USA’s national anthem. Only a few players like Julie Ertz, Lindsey Horan, and Alyssa Naeher sang the anthem. The rest stayed quiet, and that caused a lot of controversy, with people accusing them of being disrespectful.

Amidst the fervor surrounding the team’s silence, journalist Megyn Kelly has publicly criticized the players, questioning their version of feminism and empowerment. She has said, “Their reluctance to sing the national anthem indicates a disdain for their own country.”

This has sparked further controversy. Social media platforms have also erupted with fans expressing disappointment and terming the whole situation ’embarrassing.’

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Empowerment, progressivism, and standing United: Reasons behind the silence

Some players from the US Women’s National Team see their decision not to sing the national anthem as a way to stand up for empowerment and progressivism. They have been outspoken about fighting for equal pay and supporting causes like transgender women in sports. They believe that staying silent during the anthem shows their strong commitment to what they believe in.

This is not the first time that members of the US Women’s National Team have made headlines for their activism, though. Earlier star forward Megan Rapinoe‘s refused a White House trip.

Additionally, we saw how there was an uproar when Rapinoe decided to kneel during the national anthem in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick. However, Rapinoe and her teammates have stood firm in their beliefs, championing causes close to their hearts.

But leaving aside the off-field controversies, many people have questioned US Women’s National Team’s performance on the pitch, too. Their journey at the World Cup has seen ups and downs, with a 3-0 victory against Vietnam followed by a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands. With a 0-0 draw against Portugal, they have only somehow secured a spot in the Round of 16.

Nevertheless, their decision to remain silent will always be a mixed bag. Some will view it as empowerment and activism, while others perceive it as disrespectful. As the FIFA World Cup progresses, our focus remains on the on-pitch matters. But we can’t deny that the conversation surrounding their actions off the field will continue.

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So, what are your thoughts on this matter? Do you see it as an expression of empowerment or an issue of disrespect? Let’s keep the discussion going!