Nazi-era German anthem at Fed Cup sparks outrage as USTA apologises
United States tennis’ governing body says sorry in statement while Petkovic labels mistake the ‘epitome of ignorance’
The United States Tennis Association has issued an apology after a World War II-era version of the German national anthem was sung during the opening ceremony of a Fed Cup quarter-final.
The stanza of the anthem that was sung by a soloist – which includes the words “Germany, Germany above all else” – is associated with the Nazi era.
Germany’s Andrea Petkovic, who was born in Bosnia, said she considered walking off the court as the anthem went on.
“I thought it was the epitome of ignorance,” Petkovic told a press conference after her 7-6 (10-7), 6-2 loss to Alison Riske.
“I’ve never felt more disrespected in my whole life, let alone in Fed Cup, and I’ve played Fed Cup for 13 years now and it is the worst thing that has ever happened to me.”
