BEVERLY HILLS, February 21, (THEWILL) – Australian singer-songwriter, Sophie Patten, known professionally as Gordi, made an awkward error during the Australian Open men’s singles final pre-match ceremony when she sang some of the lyrics for the national anthem incorrectly. Instead of singing “For we are one and free” in the second line, she recited “For we are young and free,” the old words which were scrapped seven weeks ago.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who amended the country’s anthem on New Year’s Eve, said Governor-General David Hurley had agreed to the federal government’s recommendation that the change be reflected in the anthem.
He gave the rationale for the alteration: “During the past year, we have showed once again the indomitable spirit of Australians and the united effort that has always enabled us to prevail as a nation. It is time to ensure this great unity is reflected more fully in our national anthem.
“Also, while Australia as a modern nation may be relatively young, our country’s story is ancient, as are the stories of the many First Nations peoples whose stewardship we rightly acknowledge and respect.
“In the spirit of unity, it is only right that we ensure our national anthem reflects this truth and shared appreciation.”
It is not the first time the country’s anthem has been reworded. The January 1, 2021 change was the most recent after the modification to the anthem by the Bob Hawke government in 1984, when it was changed from “God Save the Queen” to “Advance Australia Fair”.
Gordi sang the words to the now outdated lyric at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday evening possibly by force of habit or for some unknown reason. As expected, her error did not go unnoticed. Twitter was immediately awash with reactions, mostly from Australians, who went from the sublime to the ridiculous about the mild slip of Gordi’s.
The mistake was so clear and distinct all the more because, unlike most performances of the national anthem, the 28-year-old sang without any accompanying music, and her acappella rendition echoed boomingly around the iconic venue.
She had also recited the national anthem ahead of Saturday evening’s women’s final at the same venue.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
