The U.S. men’s hockey team, fresh off their gold medal victory, is navigating the aftermath of a contentious postgame phone call with President Donald Trump that went viral. During the call, Trump invited the men to the White House and joked about needing to invite the women’s team, or “else I probably would be impeached.” The players’ reactions, which included laughter from some, have drawn criticism, with calls for a more respectful acknowledgment of the women’s team, who also clinched gold by defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime at the Milan Cortina Olympics.
Goaltender Jeremy Swayman of the Boston Bruins commented on the matter, stating, “We should’ve reacted differently,” expressing deep respect for the women’s team’s efforts and success. Swayman emphasized the collective pride shared among the players for both teams, highlighting a bond formed through training and mutual support.
In discussions on “Good Morning America,” noteworthy members from the men’s team, including Jack Hughes and his brother Quinn, reiterated their respect for the women’s team. Jack, who secured the men’s gold with an iconic overtime goal, recalled how both teams celebrated together late into the night post-victory. Quinn underscored the close connection established through joint training sessions over the past summers.
Interestingly, some players, including Tampa Bay Lightning’s Jake Guentzel and Dallas Stars’ Jake Oettinger, did not participate in the trip to Washington D.C. They explained their absence as a result of prioritizing family time and adjusting to the rigorous NHL schedule following the Olympics. Oettinger reflected on the honorary nature of the invitation and expressed his support for women’s hockey, declaring, “There’s no one that supports women’s hockey more than me.”
In response to Trump’s statement, women’s hockey star Hilary Knight, who played a pivotal role in their gold medal win, characterized the joke as “distasteful,” asserting that it detracted from the significant achievements of women athletes at the Olympics. Knight, who holds the record for the most Olympic goals by a U.S. women’s hockey player, underscored the camaraderie and respect between the two squads despite the moment of controversy.
The women’s team declined the invitation to meet Trump in light of pre-existing academic and professional commitments, raising questions about a future White House visit. With the NCAA Women’s Frozen Four approaching and the Professional Women’s Hockey League season ongoing, the timing remains uncertain.
As the men’s team prepares to resume their NHL commitments, the conversation surrounding their encounter with the President may serve as a reminder of the importance of unity and respect in sports, especially in recognizing the achievements of female athletes. Both teams sharing their gold medals symbolizes a continued legacy of excellence in U.S. hockey.