The New England Patriots wide receiver was seen turning his back on the American flag during Super Bowl LX
Stefon Diggs has once again chosen to face away from the American flag. The New England Patriots wide receiver was spotted making the gesture during the national anthem at Super Bowl LX, despite previously facing backlash.
As American singer-songwriter Charlie Puth delivered a rendition of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ before a packed Levi’s Stadium on Sunday, Diggs was spotted bouncing energetically while facing the stands rather than the pitch.
Following Puth’s performance, Diggs made a beeline for the Patriots’ bench before fixing an intense gaze on sections of the crowd.
This marks the second occasion Diggs has turned away from the American flag during the National Anthem.
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However, it appears to be more of a pre-match ritual than a political statement, similar to former quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling protest.
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Before kick-off during the Patriots’ 10-7 victory over the Denver Broncos in the AFC Conference Championship, CBS cameras captured the 32-year-old similarly facing the crowd as country singer Nathaniel Rateliff performed the anthem at Mile High.
The incident sparked a flurry of criticism on social media, with viewers condemning what they perceived as a disrespectful act from Diggs.
“Stefon Diggs turning his back to the anthem and flag is hilarious. What a moral high ground he has,” one said.
Another added: “Why did Stefon Diggs do jumping jacks with his back to the flag during the National Anthem? Very disrespectful! !”
A third said: “Just watched Diggs turn his back on the National Anthem. Wonder if he realises this accomplishes nothing but make him look stupid.”
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