The political tension between the nations was noticeable even before the final between Canada and the USA at TD Garden in Boston.
In the stands, American fans booed during the Canadian national anthem, while Chantal Kreviazuk, the artist performing "O Canada", sent a jab at USA's President Donald Trump.
Kreviazuk changed a line in the first verse from "true patriot love, in all of us command" to "true patriot love, that none but us command". It was a direct response to Trump's statement about wanting to make Canada the 51st state of the USA.
I did it because I believe in democracy. A sovereign state should not have to defend itself against tyranny and fascism, says Kreviazuk to AP.
On Instagram, she elaborates on her thoughts, next to a picture where she shows her palm, on which she has written "that only us command".
"Sad if you think it would be better if we were annexed. But that's how it is, for me, art is a way to express the truth. And in this very strange and potentially important event, I really feel that we must stand up for ourselves, use our voices, and try to defend ourselves. Or no, we should express our anger towards all those who try to abuse their power", writes Kreviazuk.
Canada won the final with 3–2 after superstar Connor McDavid decided the game in overtime.
