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A viral moment involving two MLB fans has sparked debate after an older supporter was seen striking a younger fan who remained seated during the national anthem at Wrigley Field.
Footage captured during an afternoon game in the Chicago Cubs-Minnesota Twins series, showed the older man confronting the fan, repeatedly telling him to “get up” as the anthem played. After the younger supporter responded, the man moved closer and continued the confrontation before slapping him on the back of the head.
The incident drew shocked reactions from nearby fans, with many expressing criticism over the physical altercation. The younger fan eventually stood up following the confrontation.
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Despite the younger fan eventually standing, the older supporter continued shouting at him and those around him while the anthem was still being performed — a reaction some viewers argued was itself disrespectful to the moment.
The video has since gone viral, gaining more than two million views on Instagram and sparking a heated debate online. While some users defended the older man’s actions, others condemned the decision to slap the fellow fan.
"You should be standing for any anthem of any country out of respect, the old man taught him some manners with the slap," said one fan, while another added: "It looks like no one standing around had a problem with this love tap reminding the dude, in case he forgot to show respect for the our country".
A third person said: "'I love my country and have served but the whole point of being free is being able to have the freedom to exercise your beliefs. Sitting down during the national anthem is very distasteful but he has every right to do so."
A fourth user commented: "To slap him is not okay. I can't believe no other fan stepped up. I would have in a minute. You can not like what the kid was doing, but that's no right to smack him."
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Chicago Police has been made aware of the viral footage and its contents. Authorities told TMZ they had reviewed the images, although no official police report has been filed over the incident.
On the field, it was the Cubs delivering the punishment as they cruised to a 10-1 victory over the Twins. A dominant display from pitcher Shota Imanaga, combined with four RBIs from Nico Hoerner, helped secure a comfortable win for Craig Counsell’s side.
The Cubs remain seven games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central race but hold a 4.5-game advantage in the NL Wild Card standings, where three teams will advance to the playoffs.
