Canadian fans boo U.S. anthem amid tariff tensions with Trump

In Canada, sporting events have recently witnessed an emerging trend where fans have expressed their discontent by booing the U.S. national anthem. This phenomenon occurred on Saturday during NHL games in Ottawa and Calgary when the Ottawa Senators faced the Minnesota Wild and the Calgary Flames played the Detroit Red Wings. The boos erupted as the U.S. anthem was played, highlighting a growing sentiment among Canadians in relation to U.S. policies. This discontent was exacerbated by the announcement made just hours earlier by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding significant tariffs imposed on Canadian goods. The tariffs were framed as a response to Canada's failure to assist the United States in combating illegal drug trafficking and immigration issues, leading to further tensions between the neighboring countries. Interestingly, the trend continued as fans at a Toronto Raptors game also booed the U.S. anthem following the NHL games and displayed enthusiastic support for the Canadian anthem, “O Canada.” In the past, instances of booing the U.S. anthem in Canada have occurred, typically associated with political contexts, such as the U.S.-led war in Iraq in the early 2000s. This recent string of incidents indicates a rekindled disapproval of American policies in Canada, with many fans taking the opportunity to express their sentiments at public events.