In a lengthy and somewhat baffling interview with a fringe podcast (because where else would this story originate?), Kaepernick outlined his frustrations with the state of America, claiming that the disrespect he’s faced since kneeling during the national anthem in 2016 has reached an all-time high. According to him, unless things start to change, he’s out of here—and Moscow is the next stop.
“I’ve Tried Everything, But America Just Isn’t Listening”
For years, Kaepernick has been a polarizing figure, both in and out of the football world. What began as a peaceful protest against racial injustice and police brutality quickly snowballed into a nationwide controversy, leading to Kaepernick being effectively blackballed from the NFL. Despite this, the former 49ers quarterback remained committed to his cause, becoming a powerful voice for social justice and launching numerous campaigns aimed at raising awareness for issues affecting marginalized communities.
But apparently, it’s not enough.
“I’ve tried everything,” Kaepernick said in his podcast interview, sounding a bit like someone who’s done with their day job and ready to move to Bali to start a meditation retreat. “I kneeled, I donated, I worked with organizations. But at the end of the day, it feels like the country just isn’t listening. And if America won’t respect me for the work I’ve done, maybe Russia will.”
