Kid Rock Calls for Megan Rapinoe to Quit Team USA Over Anthem Protests

Kid Rock has once again inserted himself into the world of sports and politics, this time taking aim at Megan Rapinoe, the outspoken soccer star known for her progressive activism and protests during the national anthem.

The musician, who has long positioned himself as a staunch conservative voice, is now demanding that Rapinoe step down from representing the United States, arguing that anyone who "hates America" shouldn’t be wearing the red, white, and blue.

The controversy erupted after Kid Rock made public statements blasting Rapinoe, questioning her loyalty to the country and calling for her immediate resignation from any U.S. team representation.

“If you hate America, you shouldn’t be representing America,” Kid Rock declared. “Nobody is forcing you to wear the jersey. If you have that much of a problem with this country, step aside and let someone else take your place.”

His comments directly target Rapinoe’s history of refusing to stand for the national anthem, kneeling in solidarity with movements like Black Lives Matter, and speaking out against racial and gender inequalities in the U.S.

Rapinoe has been one of the most polarizing figures in American sports, receiving both praise and criticism for her activism. She has used her platform to call out issues such as gender pay gaps in sports, racial injustice, and LGBTQ+ rights, often clashing with conservative figures who believe politics should stay out of sports.

Kid Rock’s stance reflects a larger national debate over whether athletes should use their platforms for activism or simply focus on their sport. Many conservative critics, including former President Donald Trump, have openly opposed Rapinoe’s protests, claiming that her actions disrespect the country and those who serve it.

However, Rapinoe and her supporters argue that protesting is an essential part of American democracy, and that criticizing the nation’s shortcomings does not equate to hatred of the country.

Rapinoe has repeatedly defended her stance, saying:

“I don’t protest the anthem because I hate America. I protest because I want America to be better for everyone.”

Despite the backlash, Rapinoe’s influence in women’s soccer remains undeniable. She has led the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) to multiple victories, including two World Cup titles, and has been a vocal leader in the fight for equal pay in sports.

Unsurprisingly, Kid Rock’s remarks have sparked intense reactions across social media.

• Supporters of Kid Rock argue that representing Team USA should come with an obligation to honor American symbols, including the anthem and flag. They believe that if an athlete cannot respect those traditions, they should not be allowed to compete under the American flag.
• Supporters of Rapinoe argue that criticizing the government is a fundamental right in America, and that protesting injustices does not make someone unpatriotic. They point out that freedom of speech and expression are what truly define America.

So far, Megan Rapinoe has not publicly responded to Kid Rock’s statements, but given her track record, it wouldn’t be surprising if she fires back at his criticism.

As for Kid Rock, this is far from his first public feud. He has previously attacked celebrities, athletes, and politicians who align with progressive values, often using his platform to rally against what he calls “woke culture”.

The larger debate over patriotism, activism, and sports is not going away anytime soon. As more athletes continue to use their platforms for political and social causes, figures like Kid Rock will continue to push back, insisting that sports should remain separate from activism.

But for athletes like Rapinoe, the fight for justice is not something they are willing to silence—no matter how much backlash they receive.