The roar of victory still echoed as Team USA’s men’s ice hockey team celebrated a stunning 2-1 overtime win against Canada, ending a 46-year Olympic gold medal drought. The Milano Cortina 2026 games had delivered a moment for the ages, a triumph reminiscent of the legendary “Miracle on Ice” of 1980.
In the jubilant locker room, a phone call came through – President Donald Trump offering his congratulations. He extended an invitation for the team to be honored guests at the State of the Union address, a gesture of national recognition for their hard-fought achievement.
But the celebratory atmosphere quickly shifted with a seemingly offhand remark. Trump, acknowledging the recent gold medal win by the US women’s hockey team, quipped, “We’re going to have to bring the women’s team… you do know that? I do believe I probably would be impeached.” The comment sparked laughter from the players, but ignited a firestorm of criticism.
Hilary Knight, captain of the women’s team, publicly called the comment “distasteful.” While the women’s team had cited prior commitments for declining a White House visit, the president’s words cast a shadow over the shared victory. The incident quickly became a national talking point.
Charlie McAvoy, a defenseman for the Boston Bruins and a member of the men’s team, later issued an apology. He expressed regret for the team’s reaction, emphasizing the deep respect and camaraderie they shared with their female counterparts. He stressed the moment was a quick reaction and didn’t reflect their true feelings.
“What they did was unbelievable,” McAvoy continued, speaking passionately about the women’s team’s accomplishment. He described a bond forged through mutual support and shared dedication, a friendship that transcended competition. He affirmed their unwavering pride in the women’s team’s dominant performance.
Jeremy Swayman, another Bruins star, echoed McAvoy’s sentiments. He acknowledged the team should have responded differently, reaffirming their immense respect for the women’s team and their shared joy in winning gold together. It was a moment they would cherish forever.
While McAvoy and Swayman accepted the President’s invitation to the White House and the State of the Union address, five players – Brock Nelson, Jackson LaCombe, Jake Oettinger, Jake Guentzel, and Kyle Connor – declined to attend. Each cited pre-existing family and professional obligations as the reason for their absence.
Jake Guentzel clarified his decision, stating he was focused on preparing for the resumption of NHL games. Jackson LaCombe expressed his honor at the invitation but explained the tight schedule made it impossible to attend, emphasizing his love for the country and respect for the office of the President.
