It's not a rule; it's just a cultural truth, like team colors and touchdown shouts. Every NFL, MLB, NBA, MLS, and NHL game featuring an American team, as well as every NASCAR race, begins with the anthem. The tradition is strong, and it's easy to forget that it wasn't always like this. When the anthem first began being played at sports events, most teams chose not to attend them. Some even left their seats during the playing of the song! But things have changed since then. Today, all eyes are on the field of play as one entity: the American flag. As powerful and moving as it is, there's no better way to honor our country than by supporting our athletes. They represent all of us on the field, in the stands, and on social media. The anthem has become such an integral part of sporting events that when players from different countries face off in a match or competition, they're given the opportunity to be recognized either before or after the game starts. This is called the pre-game ceremony or post-game tribute. It allows these individuals to set aside their differences and come together as one group, taking time out of their busy schedules to show their respect for America and its citizens who support them abroad. In addition to honoring our athletes, these ceremonies serve to unite us all as one nation. Without question, the national anthem is one of the most powerful songs in the world.