The hockey rivalry between the United States and Canada was reignited on Saturday in Montreal, with heightened tension among fans, influenced by political sentiments. Prior to the game at Bell Centre, Canadian fans booed the “Star-Spangled Banner” for the second consecutive match involving the U.S. in the tournament, despite the public address announcer urging respect for both anthems and the players. The U.S. anthem was met with boos throughout its performance.
The intensity of the jeers was amplified by the significance of the matchup, as both nations are recognized as hockey powerhouses with a history of classic encounters. The negative reactions were largely fueled by political issues, particularly President Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods and his comments suggesting Canada could become the “51st state.”
This display of discontent was not isolated; Canadian fans had similarly booed the U.S. anthem during a previous game against Finland, which felt like a home game for Canada when Finland took an early lead. Earlier this month, fans in Toronto and Ottawa also expressed their disapproval during the anthems of visiting American teams. Vancouver Canucks announcer John Shorthouse humorously remarked that a penalty would last 2½ minutes due to the tariffs.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attended the game wearing a Team Canada jersey, amidst growing pressure to resign from his own Liberal Party due to criticism over his economic management and Trump’s threats. Two-time Olympic gold medalist Michelle Kwan, who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Belize during the Biden administration, was also booed while introducing the Team USA players.
This matchup marked the first best-on-best encounter between the U.S. and Canada since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, with Canada having won 13 consecutive games featuring NHL players. One of the most memorable games between the two nations was the 2010 Olympic gold medal match in Vancouver, where Sidney Crosby scored the winning goal in overtime.
NHL executive Bill Daly commented on the situation, expressing hope that fans would show respect for the national anthems. He noted a positive experience with American teams in Montreal earlier in the week and emphasized that sports can help bridge divides and foster unity.
A win for the U.S. on Saturday would secure their place in a one-game final.
