NEW YORK, NY ― In an unexpected twist to the patriotic debate in sports, rock star and controversial public figure Kid Rock has made a statement that has ignited social media and the media. During a recent interview, the singer took direct aim at former soccer player Megan Rapinoe, questioning her role as a representative of American values ​​in the sports arena.

“If you hate America, you shouldn’t represent America,” Kid Rock declared in his characteristically direct and unfiltered tone. The criticism came after Rapinoe’s previous comments about social injustices in the country, accompanied by her actions, such as kneeling during the national anthem, have divided public opinion.

Megan Rapinoe, known as much for her talent on the field as for her activism off it, has become a symbol of the fight against inequality and discrimination. His political stances and symbolic gestures, such as refusing a visit to the White House during Donald Trump’s term, have earned him passionate admirers and staunch critics.

Kid Rock, on the other hand, has built a career as a rebellious and, at times, controversial voice. This recent attack on Rapinoe is the latest episode in his history of controversial statements, in which he often mixes patriotism with comments that divide opinions.

The response on social media was not long in coming. Kid Rock’s followers celebrated his words, interpreting them as a defense of national pride. On platforms such as Twitter and Facebook, users shared the singer’s phrase along with messages of support for the “true American spirit.”

However, Rapinoe’s defenders also raised their voices. Many argued that the player’s criticism does not mean hatred towards the country, but a desire to improve its systems and values. “Patriotism is not accepting everything without question, it is wanting your nation to be better,” wrote one user in response to Kid Rock’s statements.

The controversy reflects a broader divide in the United States over the meaning of patriotism. While some see actions like Rapinoe’s as disrespectful, others see them as a valid way to express discontent and seek change.

Experts say such public clashes, especially between high-profile figures, exacerbate cultural and political tensions in the country. “Sports and entertainment have become ideological battlegrounds,” says sociologist Maria Gonzalez. “What we see here is not just a disagreement between two people, but a reflection of conflicting values ​​in American society.”

While the debate continues, Megan Rapinoe has not publicly responded to Kid Rock’s words. For his part, the singer seems to enjoy the media attention, reinforcing his image as an advocate of uncompromising patriotism.

The clash between these two figures puts a fundamental question center stage: What does it really mean to represent the United States in the international arena? And more importantly, who has the right to define it?

With this clash of opinions and the media noise it generates, it is clear that the conversation about patriotism in the United States is far from over.