United States Olympic women’s hockey team captain Hilary Knight expressed strong disapproval of President Donald Trump’s invitation to the White House, calling it “a distasteful joke” during an interview on ESPN’s SportsCenter on Wednesday. The comments came after Trump welcomed the men’s hockey team following their gold medal victory, sparking controversy about recognition and treatment of the women’s team. Knight emphasized that the women’s remarkable achievements, including their third Olympic gold, should be the main focus rather than political gestures.
The Controversial Invitation
President Trump extended a White House invitation to the men’s hockey team via a phone call on Sunday after their 2-1 overtime victory against Canada. While celebrating, Trump joked over speakerphone that the women’s team should also be invited. The women’s team, however, declined due to prior academic and professional commitments. Knight, a five-time Olympic medalist, pointed out that the political discourse surrounding the invitation was overshadowing the women’s accomplishments at the Milan Cortina Winter Games, including her game-tying goal that helped secure gold.
Jeremy Swayman, Team USA and Boston Bruins goalie, also reflected on the moment, calling it a “quick lapse” in judgment in the locker room while showing respect for the women’s achievements. Even rapper Flavor Flav, who served as Team USA’s hypeman in Italy, offered an alternative celebration for the team in Las Vegas, although players’ commitments in the PWHL and college leagues prevented immediate participation.
Men’s Team Recognition and Public Reaction
While the women’s team opted out of political events, a contingent of the men’s team attended the State of the Union on Tuesday night, receiving six minutes of acknowledgment from President Trump. Trump praised the men’s team, stating, “Our country is winning again… a group of winners who just made the entire nation proud.”
Jack Hughes, who scored the game-winning goal in overtime, returned to the New Jersey Devils to face Olympic teammate Tage Thompson. Both received a standing ovation from fans, with Hughes emphasizing the importance of celebrating hockey and their teammates rather than engaging in political debates. He described the team’s mindset as being solely focused on hockey and winning gold, underscoring the athletes’ primary commitment to the sport.
Knight’s Perspective on Women in Sports
Hilary Knight used the controversy as an opportunity to highlight broader issues around recognition of women in sports. She emphasized that female athletes’ achievements should never be overshadowed by external factors or political narratives. Knight also reflected on her own historic performance, setting US women’s hockey records for Olympic goals and points with her crucial equalizer in the final.
Looking ahead, Knight is scheduled to return to professional play with the PWHL’s Seattle Torrent, continuing her remarkable career while advocating for greater visibility and respect for women’s sports achievements.
