NFL star Puka Nacua has issued an apology for promising to do a controversial dance following his next touchdown.
The Rams wide receiver vowed on a livestream with Adin Ross earlier this week to spin the ball, flex and then rub his hands together in a manner that some found offensive.
The gesture involved Nacua hunching over and massaging his palms in a hasty fashion. Critics have dubbed it antisemitic — calling it an insulting trope — even though he did the moves alongside Ross, who’s Jewish.
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Nacua took to his Instagram page Thursday to apologise “to anyone who was offended by my actions.”
“I do not stand for any form of racism, bigotry or hate of another group of people,” he said.
“When I appeared the other day on a social media livestream,” Nacua added, “it was suggested to me to perform a specific movement as part of my next touchdown celebration.
“At the time, I had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people.”
Eric Swalwell, the U.S. rep from California’s 14th congressional district, made it clear Wednesday night he was one of the people offended by Nacua’s actions, and he actually demanded an apology from the 24-year-old.
“The Los Angeles Jewish community is on edge after the Bondi Beach massacre,” Swalwell, a Democrat, wrote. “And what does this a**hole @AsapPuka do? He promises an antisemitic touchdown dance for his Thursday night game.
“He should apologise or be dropped.”
The NFL also weighed in on the incident on Thursday.
“The NFL strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and derogatory behaviour directed towards any group or individual,” the league said in a statement.
“The continuing rise of antisemitism must be addressed across the world, and the NFL will continue to stand with our partners in this fight. Hatred has no place in our sport or society.”
Nacua had already faced criticism from US politician Eric Swalwell, who called for the player to be dropped from the Rams clash with the Seattle Seahawks if he didn’t issue an apology.
“The Los Angeles Jewish community is on edge after the Bondi Beach massacre,” Swalwell wrote on X. “And what does this asshole (Nacua) do? He promises an antisemitic touchdown dance for his Thursday night game. He should apologise or be dropped.”
It was hardly the only moment from the stream that made waves. Nacua also blasted NFL referees, saying they’re “the worst” and accusing them of throwing flags just to get on TV.
The 24-year-old offered up a baffling take on concussions as well.
This article initially appeared on The New York Post and was reproduced with permission.
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