Full Breakdown
U.S. Hockey Teams' Responses to Trump's State of the Union Invitation
2/24/2026, 8:47:43 PM
Overview of the Event
Following their gold medal victories at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, both the U.S. men's and women's hockey teams received invitations from President Donald Trump to attend his State of the Union address. The men's team, which secured its first Olympic gold in men's hockey since 1980 with a 2-1 overtime win against Canada, expressed enthusiasm about the invitation. In contrast, the women's team, which also defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime, declined the invitation due to prior commitments.
Men's Team's Enthusiasm
The U.S. men's hockey team, led by players such as Jack Hughes and Matthew Tkachuk, reacted positively to Trump's invitation. Hughes described the opportunity to meet the president as "super cool" and emphasized the patriotic significance of representing the U.S. at such a high-profile event. During a celebratory phone call facilitated by FBI Director Kash Patel, Trump offered to send a military plane for the team to attend the address, to which one player enthusiastically responded, "We're in." Tkachuk echoed this sentiment, stating it was an honor to hear from the president and to represent the country.
Women's Team's Decline
In contrast, the U.S. women's hockey team declined the invitation, citing "previously scheduled academic and professional commitments" as the reason for their absence. A spokesperson from USA Hockey expressed gratitude for the recognition of their achievement but confirmed that the athletes would not be able to attend. The decision came after the women's team had celebrated their victory, which included a thrilling overtime win where Megan Keller scored the decisive goal.
Official Statements & Responses
Trump's invitation to the men's team included a light-hearted remark about needing to invite the women's team as well, joking that he would be "impeached" if he did not. This comment drew laughter from the players during the call. Meanwhile, the women's team reiterated their appreciation for the invitation, stating, "We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal-winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement."
Criticism & Opposition
Keith Olbermann, a former ESPN broadcaster, criticized the men's team for considering the invitation, suggesting they were being used as "political props" for Trump. He praised the women's team for their decision to decline, framing it as a stand against being politicized. Olbermann's remarks highlight a divide in public opinion regarding the teams' responses to the invitation.
What's Next
The U.S. men's hockey team is confirmed to attend the State of the Union address, while the women's team will continue with their academic and professional commitments. The NHL season is set to resume shortly after the address, with both teams returning to their respective leagues.
Verbatim Quotes
- "It’s an honor hearing from the President of the United States." — Matthew Tkachuk, U.S. Men's Hockey Team
- "We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal-winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team." — USA Hockey Spokesperson
- "The women, that is." — Keith Olbermann, Commenting on the women's team's decision to decline the invitation
- "We’re proud to represent the U.S. and when you get the chance to go to the White House, meet the president, you know, we’re proud to be Americans." — Jack Hughes, U.S. Men's Hockey Team
This event underscores the contrasting responses of the two teams to a significant political invitation, reflecting broader societal discussions about sports and politics.
