A heckler interrupted the US national anthem at an NBA game in London, drawing cheers from the crowd amid tensions over Donald Trump's push to acquire Greenland. The outburst occurred just before tip-off between the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies at the O2 Arena. Singer Vanessa Williams continued unfazed as spectators applauded the political protest.
The incident unfolded on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at London's O2 Arena during the NBA regular-season matchup between the Orlando Magic and the Memphis Grizzlies. As American singer and actress Vanessa Williams performed "The Star-Spangled Banner," an unidentified man in the stands yelled, "Leave Greenland alone!" The shout, captured on video, prompted applause, whistles, and cheers from parts of the crowd, highlighting simmering international frustrations.
Williams completed her rendition without interruption, maintaining composure amid the disruption. The event comes amid escalating US efforts under President Donald Trump to bring Greenland—a semi-autonomous Danish territory—under American control. Trump has cited national security concerns, posting on Truth Social that "The United States needs Greenland for the purpose of National Security," warning that Russia and China could otherwise dominate the region. He has floated options including purchasing the island from Denmark or even military deployment.
On Saturday, January 17, Trump announced a proposed 10 percent tariff on Denmark and other European nations, payable "until such time as a Deal is reached for the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland." European leaders have rebuked the moves, with officials from eight nations issuing a joint statement on Sunday criticizing the tariffs as undermining transatlantic relations and risking escalation. Comparisons have been drawn to Russian President Vladimir Putin's tactics in Ukraine.
A January 14 meeting in Washington between Danish and Greenlandic foreign ministers and US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio yielded a working group agreement, though interpretations differed sharply. Denmark announced increased military presence in Greenland alongside allies. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen responded firmly on Facebook, stating, "Enough is enough. No more pressure. No more hints. No more fantasies about annexation." He emphasized openness to dialogue but rejected disrespectful gestures, such as a social media post by Katie Miller depicting Greenland under the US flag with the caption "SOON."
Polls show limited support among Americans and Greenlanders for the acquisition, with protests erupting in Greenland. Trump's interest dates back to 2019, when he described it as a "large real estate deal." Past anthem boos at North American sports events, often tied to US tariffs, provide context for such outbursts.
