San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle responded to Canadian fans who booed the U.S. national anthem during a 4 Nations Face-Off hockey game against the United States. The incident occurred at the Bell Centre in Montreal before the game, which the U.S. ultimately won 3-1.
U.S. teammates celebrate an empty-net goal by Jake Guentzel against Canada during the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey game in Montreal. (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press via AP)
Kittle expressed his disapproval on Instagram, posting "Don’t boo the anthem!" along with the final score. The game's opening moments were marked by three fights within the first nine seconds, highlighting the intense rivalry between the two teams.
Canada head coach Jon Cooper addresses his players during the game against the United States. (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press via AP)
U.S. defenseman Zach Werenski voiced his displeasure with the anthem booing, noting similar incidents in the NHL, often linked to political tensions. He acknowledged that the team anticipated the reaction and used it as motivation. The U.S. had faced similar booing in a prior victory against Finland.
U.S. players celebrate their win over Canada in Montreal. (Graham Hughes/The Canadian Press via AP)
