**Sam Ryder’s Rendition of National Anthem Sparks Fierce Debate at Twickenham Rugby Final**
Pop sensation and Eurovision finalist Sam Ryder found himself at the centre of a heated discussion this weekend, following his unconventional performance of ‘God Save the King’ before the highly anticipated Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final. Ryder’s electric guitar interpretation of the British national anthem, delivered in front of a sell-out crowd at Twickenham, left both spectators and players visibly startled, prompting a flurry of social media commentary and on-air remarks.
The English rugby final, featuring Bath Rugby and Leicester Tigers, is widely regarded as one of the pinnacles of the domestic sporting calendar, attracting an audience that takes tradition seriously. Just before the teams clashed for the championship title, Ryder, known for his soaring vocals and charismatic stage presence at the 2022 Eurovision Song Contest, emerged onto the pitch to perform his version of the anthem. Rather than opting for the customary orchestral or a cappella arrangement, Ryder delivered a stripped-back, electric guitar solo—a choice that, while creative, divided opinions almost instantly.
ITV’s rugby commentator Alastair Eykyn summed up the general mood in the stadium by commenting, “It’s the national anthem, but not as we know it.” Cameras panned across the players during the anthem, with Leicester’s veteran prop Dan Cole drawing particular attention for his unmistakably bemused expression—a moment that was swiftly picked up and circulated on social media platforms.
Viewer reactions were swift and polarised. Many took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticise what they perceived as a lack of reverence for a solemn pre-match tradition. One user labelled the performance “disrespectful”, while another wondered aloud, “Who on earth thought that Sam Ryder performance was a good idea!” The collective sentiment among these viewers reflected both surprise and disappointment, with comments deeming the rendition as “bonkers” and even “a disgrace”.
Nonetheless, there were those who appreciated the attempt to modernise tradition. A minority suggested that Ryder should be commended for his willingness to bring something new to an established ritual, even if it did not land with all members of the crowd or the wider viewing public.
Ryder, who rose to prominence via TikTok and went on to finish second at Eurovision for the UK, has been making headlines beyond music, recently relocating to Nashville, Tennessee. Speaking to reporters about his transatlantic move, Ryder revealed, “It’s been a dream for a long time… but I didn’t realise finishing the album would keep me coming back to the UK. The problem is I’ve had zero sleep!” This openness about the pressures of his new lifestyle has only fuelled public fascination with the Essex-born singer, who has now found himself embroiled in sporting controversy.
It is worth noting that Ryder enjoys a substantial fanbase, having received an Emmy nomination and achieved chart success with his single ‘You’re Christmas To Me’ and album ‘There’s Nothing But Space, Man!’ However, his latest appearance has reignited the long-standing debate about how much flexibility should be allowed with national traditions in high-profile events.
As the dust settles on Twickenham’s turf, the conversation continues: Should artists reinterpret patriotic songs to keep ceremonies feeling fresh, or is there a line that should not be crossed? The answer remains unclear, but one thing is certain—Sam Ryder’s bold take on ‘God Save the King’ will be remembered, for better or worse, as one of the most talked-about moments in recent Premiership final history.
In the aftermath, both rugby and music fans are left pondering the delicate balance between innovation and tradition—a debate that is likely to resurface as more artists take centre stage at major public events.