UPDATE: Team USA men’s hockey star Jack Hughes is speaking out following the U.S. Women’s Hockey Team rejection of an invitation from Donald Trump after both teams triumphed in the Milan 2026 Olympics. This controversy erupted after the men’s team accepted the invitation to celebrate their 2-1 overtime victory against Canada, which included a light-hearted moment with Trump.
In a press engagement in Miami on Monday night, Hughes addressed the backlash faced by the men’s team, stating, “People are so negative out there and they are just trying to find a reason to put people down.” His comments come after the women’s team announced it would not attend the White House celebrations due to prior commitments, following their own 2-1 victory against Canada, where Hilary Knight and Megan Keller played crucial roles.
Hughes emphasized the camaraderie between the teams, sharing, “After we won the gold medal we were in the cafeteria at 3:30 AM with them.” He affirmed that the men’s team fully supports their female counterparts, adding, “Everyone in that locker room knows how much we support them, how proud we are of them.”
When asked about the invitation, Hughes expressed excitement, saying, “We’re proud to represent the US… and when you get the chance to go to the White House and meet the president, we’re proud to be Americans.”
In contrast, the women’s team released a statement thanking Trump for the invitation but cited “previously scheduled academic and professional commitments” as the reason for their absence. The statement noted, “They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.”
As this story develops, the dynamics between the men’s and women’s hockey teams highlight the challenges athletes face amid political controversies. The conflicting reactions of both teams to Trump’s invitation could have lasting implications on their public image and relationships moving forward.
Looking ahead, all eyes will be on the celebrations planned in Washington D.C. for the men’s team and the ongoing discussions surrounding the women’s team’s decision. With emotions running high and public opinions divided, the implications for Team USA may extend well beyond this immediate controversy.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to unfold.
