U.S. Players Address Backlash Over Women’s Team Comments and Trump Invite
U.S. players are in the hot seat after a viral Feb. 23 locker room call with President Trump sparked a firestorm. During the chat celebrating Team USA’s gold medal, Trump joked about inviting the women’s hockey team, and some men laughed. Now stars like Jack Hughes and Hilary Knight are trying to steer the narrative back to respect and unity in the sport.
Men’s Team Response: What Are U.S. Players Saying?
After the U.S. men’s hockey team won gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics, a viral Feb. 23 phone call from President Trump sparked backlash. Trump joked the women’s championship team had to be invited to the State of the Union or he’d be “impeached,” and some U.S. players laughed. Stars like Jack Hughes and Jeremy Swayman now stress respect for the women’s team and say reactions were in‑the‑moment.
Key points from the men’s response
- Hughes says the men’s and women’s teams are “tight” off ice.
- Swayman admits they “should’ve reacted differently.”
- Many players emphasize pride in both teams’ accomplishments.
Women’s Team Reaction: How Did They Address the Joke?
U.S. women’s hockey captain Hilary Knight publicly criticized Trump’s comment as “distasteful” and said it overshadowed the women’s Olympic success. She emphasized focus on achievements, not controversy.
Highlights from the women’s perspective
- Knight says women earned historic Olympic gold and their efforts should stay front and center.
- The women declined the State of the Union invite, citing scheduling conflicts.
- Several teammates echoed respect for their own accomplishments and for the men’s team.
Did the White House Visit Add to the Backlash?
The U.S. men’s team attended Trump’s State of the Union and White House events. Some critics view that as politicizing sport, while supporters argue it’s standard for Olympic medalists.
Legacy and Takeaway
The controversy has refocused conversations on respect and unity. U.S. players from both sides are working to move past the noise and celebrate two Olympic titles with dignity.
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