U.S. National Anthem Singer Booed by Canadian Fans Over Trump is Invited Back by NHL

A singer who was booed while performing the U.S. national anthem at a hockey game in Canada is being invited back for another shot.

Agasha Mutesasira, a 26-year-old artist in a wheelchair, faced jeers during her rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before the Vancouver Canucks played the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday. But the boos weren’t directed at her—rather, they were part of ongoing frustration from Canadian fans over U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent tariffs on Canadian goods.

Trump’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian imports (and 10% on Chinese goods) beginning February 1st has stoked fears of a trade war. In response, fans at various Canadian sporting events have expressed their anger by booing the U.S. national anthem, including a similar incident in Ottawa, while American fans have done the same to Canada’s anthem in Nashville.

Despite the negativity, Agasha took the jeers in stride, stating she didn’t take it personally. In a chat with TMZ Sports, she shared that Vancouver’s Canucks have already invited her back to perform again.

“The Canucks were really appreciative and impressed with how I handled the situation,” she said. “They’re excited to have me back at some point.”

The singer also clarified that any shaking in her hands during the anthem was due to a tremor caused by her injury, not the boos from the crowd. She had been well-prepared for the reaction, thanks to the team’s prior warning. “Once I heard the boos, I knew it wasn’t personal. I was just excited and honored to perform,” Agasha added. “In the end, everyone cheered, and it was very sweet.”

The tension surrounding the national anthems comes amid the trade battle sparked by Trump’s tariffs. In retaliation, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada would implement 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods, including beer, wine, and lumber. The tariffs, which start with a $30 billion hit on Tuesday, are part of a broader plan to hit American imports, with additional measures to follow.

Trudeau warned that Trump’s tariffs could drive up costs for everyday items like groceries and gasoline, and even cause disruptions to U.S. manufacturing. In response, he encouraged Canadians to boycott U.S. products and travel to the U.S. Meanwhile, the Premier of British Columbia has called for a halt on alcohol purchases from U.S. “red” states.