A roar of boos directed at the American National Anthem during Saturday night’s hockey matchup between Canada and the U.S. does not sit well with Windsor fans.
Canadian fans jeered as the singing of The Star-Spangled Banner began in what’s become a popular trend amidst escalating tensions between the two nations.
On Monday, CTV News walked downtown Windsor to speak with residents about the booing.
“At a sports game, people are there for the hockey, we have to remember to be cordial to be respectful to the players that’s why we’re there,” said Mark Smith.
“So not what I wanted to see as a Canadian, but I understand where their angers coming from certainly.”
Since U.S. President Donald Trump introduced and then paused sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods, fans north of the border have booed the American anthem at several sporting events.
“My thoughts are I’m actually against it, but I think this is a natural reaction for fans. They feel like they don’t have any way to push back against what’s happening,” Thabet Altaamneh told CTV News.
All eyes will be on the stands ahead of Canada’s game against the U.S. in Boston, Mass. on Thursday. This time the stakes will be much higher as the two nations hit the ice in the 4 Nations Face-Off Championship Game.
