NBA Game in London Draws Boos: "Leave Greenland Alone" Chanted at U.S. Team

Rising Anti-American Sentiment Across Europe, Including the UK

During the NBA game held at the O2 Arena in London, England, anti-Trump chants were heard from the stands, drawing attention. As President Donald Trump publicly revealed his intention to annex Greenland as U.S. territory, there is growing analysis that anti-American sentiment is spreading throughout European society in response.

On the 18th (local time), before the NBA game held in London, UK, singer Vanessa Williams is singing the United States national anthem. Photo by AFP Yonhap News

According to The Guardian on the 18th (local time), the NBA game between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic took place at the O2 Arena in London that day. Just before the game, American actress and singer Vanessa Williams passionately sang the U.S. national anthem, during which a man in the audience shouted, "Leave Greenland alone." This was followed by applause and cheers from various parts of the audience.

This game was held the day after President Trump announced that, starting next month, he would impose a 10% tariff on eight countries that had sent troops to Greenland, a Danish territory. President Trump also warned that, beginning June 1, an additional high tariff of 25% would be imposed.

Previously, eight countries-including Denmark, the United Kingdom, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Finland-had dispatched troops to Greenland. European leaders have also voiced their opposition to President Trump. For example, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated, "Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and its future belongs to Greenland and Denmark," adding, "It is completely wrong for the United States to impose tariffs on its allies."

Meanwhile, anti-American sentiment is not only erupting in Europe. Previously, when President Trump imposed high tariffs on goods and suggested making Canada the '51st state,' Canadians also booed during a National Hockey League (NHL) game against the United States. Notably, in a game between the United States and Canada held last February, three fights broke out between players just nine seconds after the game began.