Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua on Dec. 18 issued an apology for using an antisemitic trope during a Dec. 16 livestream appearance.
“When I appeared the other day on a social media livestream, it was suggested to me to perform a specific movement as part of my next touchdown celebration. At the time, I had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people.
“I deeply apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions as I do not stand for any form of racism, bigotry or hate of another group of people.”
The NFL released a statement Thursday afternoon.
“The NFL strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and derogatory behavior directed towards any group or individual,’ the statement read. ‘The continuing rise of antisemitism must be addressed across the world, and the NFL will continue to stand with our partners in this fight. Hatred has no place in our sport or society.”
The incident happened when Nacua was a guest on a livestream with Adin Ross and N3on, two internet streamers. Ross had requested Nacua perform a touchdown celebration that included the antisemitic trope.
Nacua has received backlash since the appearance.
“The Los Angeles Jewish community is on edge after the Bondi Beach massacre. And what does this (expletive) … do? He promises an antisemitic touchdown dance for his Thursday night game,” U.S. Rep. Eric Swallwell, D-California, posted on Twitter. “He should apologize or be dropped.”
Nacua also criticized NFL referees, suggesting that they want to be on TV, too, while on the livestream.
The Rams are in Seattle to face the Seahawks on ‘Thursday Night Football’.