‘Couldn't stay silent’: Iranian footballers reveal why they refused to sing anthem
Atefeh Ramezanisadeh and Fatemeh Pasandideh, two Iranian footballers, have boldly confirmed that their silence during the national anthem was a deliberate act of protest. By choosing not to sing, they aimed to express solidarity with the demonstrators in Iran. Acknowledging the risks of their stance, both athletes are now proud Australian citizens and actively participate in semi-professional football.

