Why did USA Women's Soccer team opt out of singing National Anthem during World Cup?
national anthem, «The Star-Spangled Banner,» prior to their games in the Women's World Cup. The decision has sparked controversy and criticism in the home country of the reigning champions. The majority of USWNT players refrained from singing the national anthem during their Group E matches against Vietnam, the Netherlands, and Portugal. Their actions are a form of protest against racial injustice and police violence in North America. It is not the first time the team has taken such action, as some players kneeled during the anthem back in 2016, aiming to raise awareness about pressing social issues.
Megyn Kelly's Harsh CriticismJournalist Megyn Kelly publicly criticized the USWNT on her SiriusXM podcast, accusing them of lacking patriotism and disrespecting their country. She claimed that the players' decision not to sing the national anthem or place their hands over their hearts was an embarrassment to the nation and the military.
USWNT's World Cup PerformanceDespite the controversy surrounding the national anthem issue, the USWNT qualified for the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup after finishing second in Group E. They secured one win against Vietnam and had two draws against the Netherlands and Portugal.
Silent Anthem at the Round of 16In their round of 16 tie against Sweden, six members of the USWNT chose not to sing along during the national anthem. The decision has been attributed to Megan Rapinoe, a prominent figure in the team's political advocacy and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
A Disappointing ExitFollowing a goalless draw against Sweden in the round of 16, the USA faced an early exit from the World Cup after a tense penalty shootout. Sweden emerged victorious, delivering the defending
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