Idina Menzel's performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" before the FIFA World Cup match between France and Paraguay in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026, drew sharp criticism online from viewers who felt the rendition strayed too far from the traditional patriotic song. The incident occurred on the 250th birthday of the United States.
Critics on social media described Menzel's performance, accompanied by a backing band featuring drums, strings, and a keyboard, as a "pop song" and a "butchering" of the national anthem. Some viewers suggested her vocals were altered, with one user posting, "Idina Menzel just performed the dullest version of the National Anthem I've ever heard with a autotuned mic."
Another comment stated, "The National Anthem is not a ballad!!!" Some viewers also urged Menzel to perform the anthem as written in the future, with one asserting that "When you add your own flair to it, it demeans and belittles the song and the country."
Despite the online backlash, Menzel appeared to receive cheers within Lincoln Financial Field. Her performance concluded with fireworks and a flyover, and was followed by a rendition of "America the Beautiful" by The Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale, a hip-hop band and Jimmy Fallon's house band.
Menzel had previously expressed her excitement for the opportunity, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that she was "Honored to be asked to sing the US National Anthem tomorrow, July 4, at the match in Philadelphia as part of the pre-game celebration of America’s 250th anniversary."
While the national anthem is a common feature before American sporting events, it had not been performed before every World Cup game during the tournament. An exception was made for July 4.
The match itself featured France, considered tournament favorites, against Paraguay, who had previously eliminated Germany in a penalty shootout.