U.S. Anthem Interrupted: ‘Leave Greenland Alone!’ Shout Ignites London Crowd”


‘Leave Greenland alone!’ shouted at NBA London game as US anthem is interrupted and draws cheers

At the O2 Arena in London on18 January 2026 , ahead of an NBA regular-season game between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic , a fan disrupted the performance of the US national anthem by loudly yelling “Leave Greenland alone!” during the rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner by actress Vanessa Williams . 

The shout, heard as Williams was nearing the end of the anthem, was met with applause and cheers from sections of the crowd, reflecting visible support for the sentiment. Williams continued and completed the song despite the interruption.

The remark was a political protest tied to recent tensions between the United States and several European nations over US President Donald Trump’s push to acquire Greenland . Trump had recently threatened to impose tariffs of up to 25% on the UK, Denmark and other European countries unless Greenland was made available for purchase by the United States — a proposal that European leaders have firmly rejected, pointing out that Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and its future should be decided by its own people. 

Sunday’s heckle is part of a broader pattern of public demonstrations against Trump’s foreign policy at sporting events, including previous boos of the US anthem and the president at other North American sports matches. 

Despite the disruption, the NBA game went ahead, and the Memphis Grizzlies ultimately defeated the Orlando Magic. 


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