“Things escalated very quickly” during Trump call

Charlie McAvoy Apologizes for Locker Room Incident

Charlie McAvoy, a defenseman for the Bruins, has issued an apology regarding an incident that took place in the locker room after Team USA clinched the gold medal against Canada during the 2026 Winter Olympics.

On Thursday, just before Boston’s game with Columbus, McAvoy shared his respect for the U.S. women’s hockey team. This comment came amid President Trump’s light-hearted remarks during a congratulatory call to the men’s team, which some found amusing.

“I’m definitely let down by how we reacted in that moment. Things unfolded really fast. If you know the men’s team and the time we’ve spent with the women’s team, and how we support them, it doesn’t really express our feelings about their achievements,” McAvoy, who is also related to Team USA coach Mike Sullivan, commented.

The U.S. defeated Canada 2-1 in an intense overtime match. Following this victory, they were congratulated by President Trump and invited to the White House and the upcoming State of the Union address.

“I need to say that we have to bring the women’s team, you know that,” Trump joked during the welcome, adding that he would face impeachment if the women weren’t invited, which drew laughs from those present.

Jeremy Swayman, a goaltender and teammate of McAvoy’s, remarked that the team “should have responded differently” in the situation.

“We’re really excited about the women’s team. We respect them a lot. Sharing the gold medal with them is something we’re forever thankful for,” he said the following Wednesday.

Earlier in the week, the women’s team had opted out of Trump’s invitation due to scheduling conflicts, but they suggested alternative ways to celebrate their success.

Hilary Knight, captain of the U.S. women’s team, criticized Trump’s joke during an appearance on “SportsCenter,” calling it “disgusting.” She noted, “That kind of left an unpleasant taste and overshadows much of our success, especially since we were the only women’s team from the U.S. at the Olympics, achieving an incredible gold medal.” Knight emphasized the importance of recognizing the women’s efforts and not letting offensive jokes undermine their accomplishments.

In relation to the locker room reactions, McAvoy and Swayman were not the only ones contacted. Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk was also asked about the situation. He seemed taken aback and said, “Honestly, it was just a fleeting moment. You can’t control what someone says, and it caught me a little off guard.”