The NFL condemned on Thursday the antisemitic gestures made by Puka Nacua, star receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, during a podcast broadcast, in an episode that quickly generated controversy and criticism on social media.

“The NFL strongly condemns all forms of discrimination and derogatory behavior directed at any group or individual. The continued rise in antisemitism must “This issue is being addressed worldwide, and the NFL will continue to support our allies in this fight. Hate has no place in our sport or our society,” the league wrote in an official statement.

Puka Nacua’s gesture that sparked controversy

On Wednesday, Nacua performed a dance considered antisemitic during his appearance on the podcast hosted by streamers Adin Ross and N3on. The gesture quickly went viral and sparked a wave of criticism on digital platforms, becoming a trending topic. Although the Los Angeles Rams have not publicly commented on the matter, the NFL issued its official statement without mentioning, for the time being, a possible suspension or disciplinary action for the player. The Rams receiver's public apology: Hours before the league's statement, Puka Nacua posted a letter on his social media accounts apologizing for his behavior during the broadcast. "I was unaware of the gesture I was making," the receiver stated. According to the player, who is second in receiving yards this season, the movement was part of a game and he intended to replicate it as a possible touchdown celebration, an idea he claimed to have discarded. "When I appeared on a live stream on social media the other day, I was asked to perform a specific move as part of my next touchdown celebration. At that moment "I had no idea that this act was anti-Semitic in nature and that it perpetuated harmful stereotypes against the Jewish people," he explained.

Rejection of Discrimination and Final Message

The 24-year-old receiver emphasized that he does not agree with any type of discrimination or hate speech.

“I sincerely apologize to anyone who may have been offended by my actions, as I do not tolerate any form of racism, intolerance, or hatred toward any group of people,” he concluded.

Who is Puka Nacua?

Puka Nacua is considered one of the best young wide receivers in the NFL. He entered the league after being selected in the fifth round of the 2023 Draft by the Rams and quickly established himself as a key piece in the team's offense. In his first years in the NFL, Nacua holds the rookie records for most receiving yards in a season, with 1,486, and most receptions, with 105, numbers that place him among the most productive players of his generation.