Team USA women’s hockey team refuse White House invite following Trump’s controversial remark

President Donald Trump celebrated the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team after their gold medal victory over Canada on Sunday. However, remarks he made during a post-game phone call — particularly about the women’s team — quickly sparked debate online.

The U.S. women’s Olympic hockey team also captured gold, defeating Canada in an overtime thriller on Saturday. Following their win, the team received an invitation to attend the State of the Union address in Washington, D.C., this week. They later declined, citing prior commitments.

After the men’s team secured their gold medal, Trump called to congratulate them.

“Unbelievable. You were all unbelievable! That team is pretty good you played,” he said.

During the call, he referenced the women’s team, joking, “I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team. You do know that. I do believe I probably would be impeached if the women’s team wasn’t invited.”

Some listeners interpreted the comment as lighthearted humor, while others criticized it as unnecessary or disrespectful, especially given the women’s championship win.

Soon after, the women’s team released a public statement addressing their decision not to attend the White House event.

“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,” the statement read.

“Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.”

The statement emphasized that scheduling conflicts — not politics — were behind their decision.

The news quickly spread across social media, where reactions were mixed.

Some praised the women’s team, viewing their decision as principled.

“That’s how you do it. These ladies are the real patriots,” one user wrote.

Another added, “I am so proud of the women’s U.S. hockey team for standing up for what is right and just. They have great backbone and convictions.”

Others defended the president, saying his remark was clearly meant as a joke and that the team’s choice should simply be respected.

“He was obviously being humorous about the women’s team. Geez people, lighten up! And if the women’s team declines, then that’s their choice,” one commenter wrote.

Some critics, however, argued that declining a presidential invitation — particularly to the State of the Union — was inappropriate.

“If the PRESIDENT personally invites you to the STATE OF THE UNION then guess what? YOU GO!” another person commented.

The situation highlights how even celebratory sports moments can quickly intersect with political debate.