U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team controversy explained

The 2026 Winter Olympic Games concluded on February 22nd, with Team USA achieving a record of 12 gold medals. Two of those golds were secured by the U.S. Men’s and women’s ice hockey teams.

Both teams delivered thrilling overtime victories against Canada, marking the men’s first Olympic gold since 1980. However, the celebratory atmosphere was quickly overshadowed by controversy.

Following the men’s win, President Donald Trump called to congratulate the team and invite them to the White House and his State of the Union address. A comment he made regarding the women’s team sparked widespread criticism.

What sparked the U.S. Men’s hockey controversy?

A video circulating online showed Trump stating he would “have to” invite the women’s team to the State of the Union, or he “probably would be impeached.” Some players on the men’s team were seen laughing in response.

The men’s team accepted the invitation to the State of the Union.

The reaction to Trump’s comment drew criticism, particularly given the close relationship between the men’s and women’s teams.

How has the women’s team responded?

The women’s team declined Trump’s invitation, citing “previously scheduled academic and professional commitments.”

A USA Hockey spokesperson stated the athletes were grateful for the invitation but unable to participate due to existing commitments.

Trump stated at the State of the Union that the women’s team would “soon” visit the White House.

USA Hockey later clarified that any potential White House visit would depend on the players’ schedules following the conclusion of their professional and collegiate seasons.

Team captain Hilary Knight described Trump’s joke as “distasteful,” stating it detracted from the women’s Olympic achievements.

“We’re just focusing on celebrating the women in our room, the extraordinary efforts, and continue to celebrate three gold medals in program history as well as the double gold for both men’s and women’s at the same time. And really not detract from that with a distasteful joke,” she said.

Knight added that the incident highlights a broader issue of how women are discussed in sports.

She emphasized the strong relationship between the men’s and women’s teams.

“I think there’s a genuine level of support there and respect,” she said, adding that the controversy had “overshadowed” that connection.

Kelly Pannek stated the men’s team was supportive throughout the Olympics.

Abbey Murphy defended the men’s team, stating they never felt disrespected.

Why did five members of the men’s team skip the visit?

Most of the team attended the White House visit and the State of the Union address. During his speech, Trump announced he would be awarding U.S. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Five players – Brock Nelson, Jackson LaCombe, Jake Oettinger, Jake Guentzel, and Kyle Connor – were absent due to scheduling conflicts and NHL season commitments.

How has the men’s team reacted to the backlash?

Jack Hughes stated the situation was “so political” and expressed pride in representing the U.S.

He added that the team was simply caught up in the moment during Trump’s call.

Hughes and his brother Quinn emphasized the strong relationship between the men’s and women’s teams.

Several players, including Charlie McAvoy, Jake Sanderson, and Jeremy Swayman, apologized for their reaction to Trump’s comment.

Zach Werenski acknowledged the moment “doesn’t look great” but emphasized the team’s respect for the women’s team.

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