British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called himself a “gooner” during a speech to parliament Wednesday, seemingly unaware of the derogatory meaning in the U.S.

The slang term has two meanings in the U.K. and U.S., respectively. When a Brit calls themselves “gooners,” they are emphasizing their support for the Arsenal Football Club. However, Americans refer to “gooners” as impulsive pornography addicts who are known to be chronic masturbators. Starmer’s innocent intention to connect with sports fans across his native country prompted comical reactions from users on X.

“Mr. speaker, I am a gooner,” the British premier told his colleagues.

  • Brem@lemmy.world
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    18
    arrow-down
    1
    ·
    6 days ago

    I know SNL UK is brand new & all, but at least make them work for the opening sketch.