Baseball viewers have hit out at what is being called the "worst" rendition of the US national anthem ever.
Yes, the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby kicked off with unexpected controversy as Ingrid Andress’ rendition of the national anthem left audiences and social media users dismayed.
Held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, Monday’s event began on a discordant note with Andress’ heavily-criticized performance of 'The Star-Spangled Banner'.
Criticism swiftly flooded social media platforms, where users likened her rendition to historical low points when it comes to anthem performances.
During Andress’ performance, visible reactions from players like Philadelphia Phillies’ Alec Bohm - who appeared to be stifling laughter - only served to further highlight the uncomfortable atmosphere.
Social media responses ranged from incredulity to humorous comparisons, with some creating hashtags like #FrancisScottOffKey and #StarStrangledBanner to express their disappointment.
"My ears are bleeding. One of the worst national anthem renditions ever," one person tweeted.
A second added: "Just when I thought nothing could unite this country, America comes together to dunk on — and I say this as politely and objectively as possible — the worst national anthem performance of all time."
A third joked: "If you or a loved one listened to the National Anthem during the 2024 Home Run Derby, you may be entitled to financial compensation. #HomeRunDerby".
Andress, a prominent figure in the country music scene and a four-time Grammy Award nominee, faced criticism comparable to infamous anthem performances by Roseanne Barr in 1990 and Fergie during the 2018 NBA All-Star Weekend.
Barr's rendition involved unconventional antics, while Fergie later apologized for her interpretation, citing artistic risk-taking.
I mean, at least Rosanne was joking (I hope), but the mere mention of Fergie's has unlocked and memory I purposely buried deep:
Andress - known for hits like 'More Hearts Than Mine' and 'Wishful Drinking' with Sam Hunt - has yet to publicly address the backlash stemming from her performance.
Despite the rendition becoming a talking point beyond the Home Run Derby itself, the event concluded with Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez emerging victorious over Royals’ standout Bobby Witt Jr.
What did you think of Andress' performance? Does it really deserve to be known as the "worst rendition" of the national anthem ever? Let us know in the comments.
