The furore emanated from images of Eaton sporting a ‘CANADA’ cap at the Olympic Stadium as he cheered on his wife from the stands.

A number of fans expressed their disgust at the gesture on social media, accusing the American of being a “traitor” for wearing a Canada cap in support of a rival nation.

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Quite legitimately, the normally level-headed Eaton responded in angry fashion, arguing, “I support the country that produced my wife; who are you to shame me?”

U.S. decathlete Ashton Eaton wears a Canada cap as he watches his wife Brianne Theisen Easton (CAN) of Canada during the heptathlon Image credit: Reuters

Athletics Canada also got involved, declaring their support for the couple and making it clear that they thought it only appropriate that Brianne would, by extension, cheer for her husband with the roles reversed.

Olympic athlete Lolo Jones also leapt to the defence of the couple, while making the point regarding Eaton’s general temperament and feelings in this matter, “I’ve never seen Ashton Eaton mad until tonight”.

Equally, Canadian javelin thrower Liz Gleadle also got involved, thanking Eaton for his support for his wife and encouraging Brianne to cheer for her husband.

OUR VIEW

It is absolutely outrageous that anyone would have a problem with a husband supporting his wife in the biggest event of her career. It seems totally inexplicable that there could be anything but encouragement and appreciation for Eaton backing his wife so publicly, particularly when he could have been busy preparing for his event instead of taking the time to lend his support.

Patriotism is one thing, but when it comes to family supporting family, who is anyone to question the motives or object to a simple gesture of encouragement? Eaton is right to respond in such a strong, but dignified, manner.

U.S. decathlete Ashton Eaton wears a Canada cap as he watches his wife Brianne Theisen Easton (CAN) of Canada during the heptathlon Image credit: Reuters

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