US Women’s Hockey Team Claps Back at Trump’s ‘Tasteless’ Remarks
Disappointment echoed through the locker room of the U.S. women’s hockey team following President Trump’s “tasteless” quip about their invitation to Washington, D.C. The players emphasized that their recent triumph should remain the focal point, not the controversy.
The uproar ignited on Sunday when Trump congratulated the men’s hockey team after their Olympic gold medal win—their first since 1980—inviting them to the State of the Union and the White House. He extended a similar invitation to the women’s team, who also clinched gold against Canada.
“I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that,” Trump remarked with a chuckle, adding that otherwise, he might face impeachment. This comment drew laughter from the men’s team, who were enjoying beers in a locker room alongside FBI Director Kash Patel, as captured in a video.
On Tuesday, most of the men’s team donned Team USA sweaters for their visit to the White House and attended Trump’s address to Congress that evening. The women’s team initially declined the president’s SOTU invitation due to prior commitments, but Trump later stated they would visit “soon.” Confirmation from the team is still pending.
Three members of the women’s team have since voiced their thoughts on the incident. Hilary Knight, captain and player for the Seattle Torrent, described Trump’s joke as “distasteful,” acknowledging the men’s team was “in a tough spot.”
“This is a learning moment about how we discuss women,” Knight asserted. “Women aren’t less than, and our achievements should shine without overshadowing.” She expressed hope that camaraderie built during the Milan Olympics wouldn’t be marred by this brief lapse.
Hayley Scamurra, a forward for the Montréal Victoire, commented on a podcast that the call “was what it was,” but noted it was overshadowed by the “outpouring of love and support” they’ve received.
Kelly Pannek, a two-time gold medalist, echoed similar sentiments on Wednesday. She remarked that while the men’s team had shown support in Italy, Trump’s joke didn’t surprise her. “With the phone call specifically, it's not surprising, to be frank,” Pannek stated. “We need to refocus on our accomplishments.”
“The video is what it is; you’d have to ask them how they feel about it,” she added.
One member of the men’s team expressed regret over how the call unfolded. Jeremy Swayman, a Boston Bruins goalie, told reporters, “We should’ve reacted differently.” He emphasized their excitement for the women’s team and respect for their achievements.
Instead of visiting the White House, the women’s team may celebrate their Olympic victory elsewhere. On Tuesday, rapper Flavor Flav invited them for a “real celebration” in Las Vegas.
