Abdelrahman
The highly anticipated 4 Nations Face-off showcased a contentious atmosphere before the game began on Saturday. As Team USA prepared to clash with Team Canada, the crowd in Montreal’s Bell Centre vocally disapproved during the U.S. national anthem, highlighting a growing trend of Canadian fans demonstrating their dissatisfaction with their American counterparts.
Historically, the USA-Canada hockey rivalry has been intense, but recent political tensions have added a troubling layer following President Donald Trump’s announcement of significant tariffs on Canadian imports. The discord was palpable as fans filled the arena, loudly booing during the playing of the U.S. anthem.
An announcer reminded attendees to stand for both national anthems in respect for the sport and its spirit, but the plea fell on deaf ears.
This behavior is part of a broader pattern that began after Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports, as well as a 10% tariff on energy resources from Canada. Although Trump later suspended these tariffs, the booing has continued unabated.
Canadian crowds at other sporting events – including games for the NBA’s Toronto Raptors and the NHL’s Ottawa Senators – have similarly expressed their discontent by booing the American anthem. It is customary for both nations’ anthems to be played during international matches, making this display of disrespect quite unusual.
During an earlier game at the same venue, Team USA defeated Finland 6-1, yet Canadian fans erupted in boos during the U.S. anthem, leading to comments from American players. Matthew Tkachuk, who performed notably in that game, voiced his disapproval, stating simply that he “didn’t like it.” This sentiment was echoed by Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand, who now plays for Team Canada.
“There should not be any of that. We’re here to play a hockey game. They can boo all they want during the games. The anthems should be off-limits,” Marchand shared with the media after Thursday’s match, as reported by MassLive. “The players have nothing to do with political matters. I feel for them in that moment. I don’t think it’s right.”
Fortunately for Team USA, they will no longer face a home crowd in Canada, as Saturday’s match marked the last one in Montreal. The concluding round-robin games, along with the finals, are set to take place at Boston’s TD Garden next week.
