USA Men’s Hockey Team Visits White House
The USA men’s hockey team, fresh off winning an Olympic gold medal, visited the White House on Tuesday to meet President Donald Trump. They are also set to attend the President’s State of the Union address.
This milestone victory came on Sunday, where the team clinched a thrilling 2-1 overtime win against Team Canada at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils scored the decisive goal, marking the U.S.’s first men’s hockey gold since the famed 1980 “Miracle on Ice.”
Historically, Canada has dominated Olympic hockey, boasting nine gold medals. This latest win not only serves as a significant achievement but also avenges a prior loss to Canada during the NHL’s Four Nations Faceoff Exhibition in early 2025, amid ongoing tensions relating to President Trump’s trade policies.
Following their victory, Trump reached out to the players during their locker room celebration to express his congratulations.
Upon inviting the team to Tuesday’s game, Trump quipped that they should also invite the women’s team, suggesting they might face political backlash if they didn’t. The players laughed, but the remark drew some criticism online, particularly from women’s hockey fans who felt the men’s win overshadowed the women’s team’s success against Canada. Subsequently, the women’s team declined Trump’s invitation to visit due to scheduling conflicts.
Dylan Larkin and Zach Werenski reflected on their American pride during a segment on FOX News Channel’s “Fox & Friends,” discussing their recent Olympic triumphs.
Larkin shared a personal touch, recalling his time in the U.S. National Team Development Program. “It kind of instilled a sense of pride,” he noted. “You don’t know when you’ll wear that jersey again, so every time you do, it’s special.” He expressed how the opportunity to represent the U.S. makes him feel deeply connected to home and family.
Werenski chimed in, emphasizing how playing internationally has enhanced his appreciation for being American. “Traveling the world makes you realize how great this country is,” he said. “It’s a privilege to represent the U.S. and wear its colors.”
Both players wholeheartedly acknowledged the sacrifices made by service members that allow them to pursue their dreams. They concluded that the U.S. is truly a remarkable place.
