American singer Vanessa Williams performs the US national anthem as an audience member shouts "Leave Greenland alone" before an NBA game between the Orlando Magic and the Memphis Grizzlies in London on Sunday Photo: VCG

A member of the audience yelled "leave Greenland alone!" while the American singer Vanessa Williams sang the US national anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner" before tipoff of an NBA game in London, UK between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic on Sunday, according to multiple media reports. 

The growing tensions between Europe and the US spilled into the sporting arena on Sunday local time when a member of the crowd shouted "Leave Greenland alone" during the performance of the US national anthem at an NBA game in London. The incident took place at the O2 Arena ahead of the matchup between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic, prompting applause and cheers from parts of the audience, the Guardian reported on Sunday. 

The Associated Press (AP) reported on Monday local time that the audience's outburst reportedly drew scattered laughter and applause from the crowd. Williams appeared unfazed by the interruption and went on to finish the song. 

The incident came amid rising tensions between Europe and the US after Washington this week threatened to impose tariffs of up to 25 percent on several European countries unless it is allowed to buy Greenland. The proposed measures include an initial round of tariffs set to take effect in early February, with further increases planned for June. European countries have publicly rejected the demand, stressing that Greenland's future is a matter to be decided by the people of Greenland and Denmark, and warning against the use of trade measures against allies, according to the Guardian.

European Council President Antonio Costa said Sunday on X that the European Union is "ready to defend itself against any form of coercion" in response to US President Donald Trump's tariff threats over Greenland.


Global Times