Olympic Hockey Glory Tarnished by Trump Call Controversy: Men’s Team Celebrates Gold Amid Backlash
By Staff Reporter | February 26, 2026
The U.S. men’s hockey team’s triumphant gold medal win at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics has been overshadowed by a controversial post-victory phone call with President Donald Trump, sparking backlash from fans and highlighting tensions with the women’s team.[1][2]
Miraculous Victory Seals Gold
In a thrilling overtime showdown on Sunday, February 22, 2026, the U.S. men’s hockey team defeated Canada, with Jack Hughes scoring the game-winning goal to secure Olympic gold.[1][2] The victory marked a high point for American hockey, echoing the dramatic 2-1 overtime win by the U.S. women’s team over Canada just three days earlier on Thursday, February 19, clinching their third Olympic gold and eighth overall medal.[1][2]
The men’s team’s locker room erupted in celebration moments after Hughes’ heroics, but the mood shifted when FBI Director Kash Patel facilitated a surprise call from President Trump.[1][4] Trump congratulated the players, invited them to the State of the Union address, and jokingly remarked that he “would have to” invite the women’s team as well, adding, “I do believe I probably would be impeached.”[1][2][4] The athletes’ laughter in response quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from fans of the women’s team who viewed the comment as dismissive.[1]
Women’s Team Responds with Grace Amid Snub Allegations
The U.S. women’s hockey team, led by hero Megan Keller’s overtime goal, politely declined Trump’s invitation to the State of the Union on Tuesday, citing “previously scheduled academic and professional commitments.”[2] USA Hockey issued a statement expressing gratitude: “We are sincerely grateful for the invitation… and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement.”[2]
During the State of the Union address, Trump saluted the men’s team in person, introducing them to cheers of “USA!” as they entered the House gallery.[3] He praised their win, saying, “Our country is winning again… here with us tonight is a group of winners who just made the entire nation proud.”[3] Trump also mentioned the women, noting they “will soon be coming to the White House,” but no such visit has been confirmed.[2]
Backlash and Divided Reactions
Fans of the women’s team were quick to call out the men’s laughter during Trump’s call, interpreting it as insensitivity toward their counterparts’ similar achievement.[1] Social media erupted with accusations of disrespect, contrasting the women’s overtime victory with the men’s.[2] “They beat a fantastic Canadian team in overtime as everybody saw, as did the American women,” Trump later said in his address, attempting to bridge the narrative.[2]
Some men’s team members confirmed attendance at the State of the Union, and posts on Trump and White House social media indicated a subsequent White House visit on Tuesday.[1] However, USA Hockey has remained silent on the call itself, neither endorsing nor condemning the exchange.[1]
“I must tell you, we’re gonna have to bring the women’s team. You do know that. I do believe I probably would be impeached.”
– President Trump during locker room call[1][4]
Political Spotlight on Sports Triumph
The incident underscores the intersection of sports and politics at the Olympics, where national pride often collides with partisan divides. Trump’s comedic-style speech to the team, captured in a viral video, included light-hearted jabs and promises of medals, further fueling online debates.[4] “What would really be cool, and we’ll do the White House the next day,” Trump quipped, emphasizing fun amid the tension.[4]
Grace Zumwinkle and Taylor Heise of the women’s team were photographed celebrating their victory ceremony in Milan, a moment of pure joy now juxtaposed against the controversy.[2] Critics argue the men’s reaction perpetuated gender disparities in sports recognition, while supporters dismissed it as harmless banter.
Olympic Legacy and Future Invites
Both teams’ golds represent a golden era for U.S. hockey, with the men’s overtime drama mirroring the women’s. Yet, the Trump call has irked some, including figures like Neal from the Star Tribune report, who noted players cherishing their medals but bristling at the presidential outreach.[Original Title Reference]
As the dust settles, questions linger: Will the women’s team visit the White House? USA Hockey and the administration have not commented further.[2] For now, the men’s team basks in glory at the Capitol, while the episode serves as a reminder that even Olympic highs can invite political lows.
Broader Implications for Team USA
The 2026 Games in Milan Cortina delivered multiple miracles for Team USA hockey, but this flap highlights ongoing debates over equity in women’s sports. Trump’s history of spotlighting athletes—from past Olympics to college football—often stirs controversy, as seen here.[3][4]
Players like Hughes, now an American hero, focused on the win, but the viral clip has amplified voices demanding equal celebration. Fox News reported the women’s response as measured, prioritizing commitments over politics.[2] PBS captured the men’s triumphant entry, a stark contrast to the women’s absence.[3]
In locker room transcripts, Trump’s humor landed with laughs, but outside, it divided.[4] “I’m driving the bus, boss,” one player joked, capturing the jovial tone internally.[4] Externally, ABC News framed it as swift backlash, with fans loyal to the women feeling sidelined.[1]
As investigations or further statements pend, the story evolves. Both teams embody American resilience on ice, but off it, the chill of controversy lingers. Olympic gold cherishes eternal, yet this phone call has thawed unity for some.
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