
Canadian sports fans made their feelings clear at an NBA game in Toronto on Sunday. As a 15-year-old singer performed “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the crowd at Scotiabank Arena erupted in boos. The moment came just a day after former US President Donald Trump announced new tariffs targeting Canada.
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Over the weekend, fans at NHL games across Canada also jeered the US anthem. For instance, during a match between the Minnesota Wild and Ottawa Senators, boos got noticeably louder as the anthem wrapped up. In both cases, the Canadian anthem was met with enthusiastic cheers.
The backlash followed Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. The former president claimed the move would curb drug trafficking and illegal immigration into the US. However, it’s likely to drive up prices for American consumers.
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau quickly fired back, announcing 25% tariffs on US goods. He emphasized that the response would be “far-reaching” and include everyday items.
Toronto Raptors forward Chris Boucher, a Canadian citizen, admitted he’d never heard fans boo the anthem before. “No, no, no,” he said, adding, “But have you ever seen us getting taxed like that?”
The Raptors went on to win the game against the Los Angeles Clippers 115-108. When asked about the booing, Raptors coach Darko Rajaković opted not to comment. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue also stayed silent on the issue but shared that he sang along to the Canadian anthem because he “likes that song.”
This wave of protest at sports events highlights the simmering tension between the two neighbors over trade policies. Whether it’s on the ice or the court, Canadian fans are making their voices heard.