BOSTON — During the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey tournament on Thursday night, fans in America responded with light boos to the Canadian national anthem, “O Canada,” prompting Canadian artist Chantal Kreviazuk to improvise lyrics in reaction to President Donald Trump’s recent comments about making Canada the 51st state of the U.S.
Initially met with scattered disapproval, Kreviazuk managed to uplift the atmosphere by changing the first line of the anthem from “true patriot love, in all of us command” to “in true patriot love that none but us command.” The Canadian singer explained her motive for the alteration, emphasizing her belief in “democracy,” stating that a sovereign nation shouldn’t have to defend itself against “tyranny and fascism.”
As the game progressed, during Canada’s thrilling 3-2 overtime win, Kreviazuk shared on Instagram a touching image featuring the phrase “that only us command” inked on her left hand, accompanied by emojis including a Canadian flag and a flexed bicep.
Following the national anthems, the audience at TD Garden erupted in a chorus during “The Star-Spangled Banner,” transforming the event into an intense showdown of national pride before one of the most anticipated hockey games in recent history, concluding with a remarkable overtime goal by superstar Connor McDavid at 8:18.
Mike Eruzione, a hero of Olympic hockey, experienced enthusiastic chants of “U-S-A! U-S-A!” as he entered the ice, donning a jersey representing late American star Jonny Gaudreau. The honorary captain’s greeting with Canadian legend Wayne Gretzky reflected a spirit of sportsmanship that fans hoped would permeate throughout the match.
Interest also peaked with President Trump making a morning phone call to the U.S. team to express his support. USA Hockey shared a photo on social media capturing general manager Bill Guerin as he stood in the locker room holding the call. U.S. center J.T. Miller commented on the significance of the president taking a moment out of his busy schedule to connect with the team, reinforcing the excitement surrounding the tournament.
After Canada’s win, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to social media to declare, “You can’t take our country — and you can’t take our game.” The historical rivalry between the two hockey powerhouses has only intensified amid Trump’s proposed tariffs and his desire for Canada to become the 51st state.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump noted he would be watching, with his press secretary stating they anticipated the U.S. claiming victory over what he called “our soon-to-be 51st state, Canada.” Trudeau dismissed this proposition, firmly stating it would never occur, while Canadian officials commented on the implications of Trump’s remarks, indicating that Canada remains a proud and independent nation.
Guerin mentioned earlier this week on Fox News that the U.S. team would welcome Trump at the finals, although he had prior plans to attend a meeting with governors in Washington. Regardless of the political undertones, the tournament has introduced NHL stars back to international competition, igniting reflections of historic games such as the American “Miracle on Ice” from the Cold War era.
In a previous match during the round-robin stage, Montreal fans expressed their emotions by booing the American anthem when several fights broke out shortly after the game started. As the tournament moved to Boston, the rivalry seemed more about hockey, with both sides aiming to reduce tension.
In the lobby of the arena, USA and Canada jerseys mixed with Boston Bruins apparel as fans exchanged friendly gestures while eagerly waiting to enter. Outside the venue, one fan humorously displayed a sign reading, “Welcome to the U.S.A. Canada’s 11th Province.” Nonetheless, many found hope that the atmosphere would remain focused on the game and free from animosity.
“I think everyone’s really here to watch the hockey game and I hope that’s really everyone’s motive,” expressed John Bennett from Massachusetts, decked out in a replica Eruzione jersey. Jason Brown, waving a Canadian flag styled into a cape, echoed this sentiment, asserting that for them, “It’s all about hockey” despite the surrounding politics.
