Megan Rapinoe Critiques Men’s Hockey Team’s Response to Trump
Former U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe expressed her disappointment regarding the U.S. men’s hockey team’s reaction to President Donald Trump’s remarks after their gold medal victory against Canada. She referred to both the players and Trump as “clowns,” criticizing their “trashy” comments aimed at the women’s gold medal-winning hockey team.
On her podcast with WNBA legend Sue Bird, Rapinoe recounted her conversation with Trump postgame, expressing her frustrations about his jokes suggesting that women’s teams should be invited to the State of the Union address. She mentioned that the men’s reaction to those comments was troubling.
“The U.S. men’s hockey team had this incredible moment—a dream come true—and they tarnished it by being distracted. Now you look foolish,” she stated.
Although she recognized the excitement of the moment, she voiced her disappointment over their lack of respect for their female counterparts. “You just gave this moment away to someone who doesn’t truly value it,” she remarked.
Rapinoe also criticized the presence of FBI Director Kash Patel in the locker room during their celebration. She was particularly incredulous, recalling her days on active duty and how she might have approached the situation differently. “I wouldn’t have let people like that into our space,” she added.
Bird highlighted her concerns about the dynamics between the men’s and women’s teams, stating it felt genuine. “It’s hard to laugh when someone in your circle is disrespected. That part, I just don’t get,” she said.
In a response to the ongoing conversation, U.S. women’s hockey star Hilary Knight called the president’s joke “disgusting” but defended the men’s team, emphasizing the genuine respect and support present among players. “It’s unfortunate this incident overshadowed the connection they share,” Knight commented.
Although the women’s hockey team declined an invitation to the State of the Union, USA Hockey indicated they plan to visit the White House soon to commemorate their gold medal triumph.
