The Facts
Most members of the US Women’s National Team (USWNT) didn’t sing along with the US national anthem before their World Cup match against the Netherlands on Wednesday in New Zealand.
Although Alex Morgan, Julie Ertz, and Lindsey Horan were seen singing, the majority of their teammates were silent before playing the Dutch team – who all sang with Netherlands’ anthem – to a 1-1 draw.
The Spin
Narrative A
These athletes are spoiled and disrespectful. They want the prestige that comes with playing for the USNWT, but they do a poor job of representing the country. They’re setting a poor example for younger Americans, who are becoming increasingly unappreciative of everything afforded them because they're American.
Narrative B
One of the things afforded all Americans is freedom of speech, and that’s exactly the right these players are exercising. Every American is fortunate to live in a country where they’re not forced to sing the anthem and can represent their country as they wish. Luckily, the players are focused on playing the matches while their critics are trying to make a controversy out of nothing.