Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua apologized for a gesture playing on antisemitic tropes during an online broadcast.
“I was unaware that this act carried an antisemitic nature and promoted harmful stereotypes against Jewish people,” Nacua wrote in an Instagram post on Thursday. “I sincerely apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions, as I do not tolerate any form of racism, bigotry, or hatred toward any other group of people.”
The statement was shared on the Blue Square logo—the emblem of the Blue Square Against Hate Alliance.
Nacua appeared live earlier in the week, hosted by internet personality Adin Ross, who suggested he perform the gesture in honor of a touchdown. The football player agreed he would do it and demonstrated how it would look.
California Congressman Eric Swalwell was among Nacua’s critics, stating it was particularly insensitive following the attack in Sydney, Australia, which claimed 15 lives during a Hanukkah celebration.
“The Jewish community in Los Angeles is on edge following the Bondi Beach massacre,” Swalwell posted on X. “He is promising an antisemitic touchdown dance for his Thursday night game. He must apologize or be removed.”
The NFL issued a statement condemning “all forms of discrimination and disparaging conduct directed toward any group or individual.”
“The ongoing rise of antisemitism must be addressed worldwide, and the NFL will continue to support our partners in this struggle,” the league declared. “There is no place for hate in our sport or in society.”
Nacua also criticized NFL referees during the live show, calling them the “worst” and claiming they make wrong calls because “they want to be on television too.”
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