A Chicago Cubs fan has broken his silence after a video showed him striking another fan for not standing during the national anthem at Wrigley Field. The incident, which occurred during a game on Sunday, drew a wide range of reactions on social media.
Robert Chavez, identified as the fan who delivered the slap, told Inside Edition and TMZ that he wanted to explain his side of the events and that a crucial part of the story was missing from the viral clip. In the video, Chavez is seen yelling at the younger man, who remained seated, urging him to stand and show respect.
"I was telling him, Please stand up, you know, have some respect," Chavez told Inside Edition. He also mentioned informing the younger man of his Vietnam War veteran status, recounting stories from the conflict in an attempt to emphasize his point. When the younger man did not comply, Chavez struck him on the back of the head.
Looking back, Chavez expressed regret over the physical aspect of the encounter. "Oh yes, definitely. I wish I could," he said when asked if he wanted to take back the slap. "Because, you know, even though I fought in Vietnam and I had buddies killed, you know, I mean, we fight for the rights of the people, and that's one of his rights."
Chavez stated that later in the game, the younger fan bought him a beer, they talked, and shook hands, indicating the matter had been resolved between them.
The Chicago Cubs organization issued a statement acknowledging the incident. "The National Anthem is an important tradition at Chicago Cubs games. While we respect the rights of individuals to decide for themselves, we encourage every fan to stand, if they are able, and to remove their caps while the anthem is being played," the statement read. The team also emphasized that fan safety is their top priority. According to the Cubs, their security team spoke with the fan who was struck, who indicated that the matter was resolved and he did not wish for further action to be taken against anyone.
