Several members of the United States women's national team have faced backlash after remaining silent and keeping their arms at their sides during the national anthem before their Women's World Cup Group E match against the Netherlands. Up to six players opted not to sing or place their hands over their hearts, a stance they had also taken in their opening game against Vietnam as a protest against social injustice.
The act was labelled as 'embarrassing' and 'disrespectful' on social media, with journalist Megyn Kelly among the most outspoken critics. She argued that the players were failing to show patriotism and respect for the military and those who have died for the country. 'They couldn't be bothered to actually place their hand on their heart as the national anthem played,' she said.
However, tennis legend Martina Navratilova defended the team, stating that they show their commitment by playing hard and winning, not by singing. 'Get a grip and start talking about solutions rather than searching for problems where there aren't any,' she responded.
Defender Naomi Girma shrugged off the criticism, saying that the anthem is not their focus when preparing for a match and that every player has the choice. Notably, not all players participated in the silent protest; captain Lindsey Horan, Alex Morgan, and goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher sang along with their hands on their hearts during the 1-1 draw.
