John Isner calls Kaepernick's anthem protest 'pathetic'

NEW YORK - John Isner has weighed in on the debate involving San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick's decision to sit during the national anthem as a form of protest meant to instigate change when it comes to race relations and what he considers police brutality.

After winning a first-round match at the U.S. Open on Monday, Isner - the highest-ranked U.S. man and a noted NFL fan - was asked about Kaepernick.

''I thought that was pathetic from him,'' Isner responded. ''The cause he was going for, fine by me - but don't do it in that fashion. He could have found some other ways to present his voice there.''

Isner ended his answer - and his news conference - by declaring: ''I'm a big Blaine Gabbert fan now,'' a reference to another 49ers QB.