Rams’ Puka Nacua Apologizes for Antisemitic Gesture During YouTube Stream
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua issued a public apology on Thursday after performing a gesture during a YouTube livestream that was widely criticized as antisemitic. The incident occurred during a pregame discussion on streamer Adin Ross’s channel, just days before the Rams faced the Seattle Seahawks in a Thursday night matchup.
During the stream, Ross, who is Jewish, prompted Nacua to perform a touchdown celebration involving spiking the ball, flexing, and then rubbing his hands together. While Ross has referred to this motion as his own “dance” or “emote,” many viewers perceived the gesture as perpetuating a harmful stereotype against Jewish people. The backlash was swift, with members of the public and political figures condemning the act.
In a statement accompanied by a graphic from the “Stand Up to Jewish Hate” campaign, Nacua said, “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 controversy comes amid heightened sensitivities within the Los Angeles Jewish community following the recent Bondi Beach massacre, which has left many on edge. A congressman called for Nacua to be dropped from the team if he continued to perform such gestures, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense.
Adin Ross’s channel has been a hub for high-profile and sometimes contentious interactions. Recently, Ross hosted former NFL player Antonio Brown and rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine, during which they made references to the assassination of political commentator Charlie Kirk. The atmosphere of these streams has been described as volatile, with onlookers noting the tension and security concerns around Ross’s home.
Nacua’s apology follows a challenging week for the athlete, who recently made controversial remarks about NFL referees and concussions, describing the latter as “all in your ear” and something “you just can’t think about.” Despite the turbulence, the Rams have maintained their focus on their upcoming games.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges athletes face navigating social media and public perception, especially when gestures or comments can be interpreted as offensive or perpetuating stereotypes. The NFL has policies in place addressing conduct that promotes hate or discrimination, and the league continues to monitor such situations closely.
For more information on combating antisemitism and hate crimes, resources are available through the Anti-Defamation League and the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. The NFL’s official website also provides updates on player conduct policies and league responses to incidents involving discrimination.
As the Rams prepare for their next matchup, the episode serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in professional sports and public life.
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