A gold medal-winning US Winter Olympic team have rejected the opportunity to attend Donald Trump’s State of the Union address after the president was accused of making sexist comments.
On Sunday (22 February), the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games were brought to a close, with the closing ceremony taking place in Verona, Italy.
Norway topped the medal standings with 41 overall — including 18 gold, 12 silver and 11 bronze — while the USA finished second with 33 overall, including 12 gold, 12 silver and nine bronze.
One of the USA’s gold medals came on the final day of competition as Jack Hughes’ overtime goal secured his nation a 2–1 win over Canada, meaning the US won their first ice hockey gold medal in 46 years.
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After the match, FBI Director Kash Patel was seen celebrating with the team inside the dressing room, while President Trump spoke to the group via phone call.
Trump could be heard saying: “Unbelievable. You were all unbelievable. That team is pretty good — you played them.”
The 79-year-old then suggested that the team should attend the State of the Union address, which will take place at the White House on Tuesday (24 February).
The State of the Union address takes place once a year and usually involves the president outlining his priorities and potential legislative changes.
Meanwhile, the President has also been heavily criticised for sexist comments he made during the call.
“I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team,” Trump said. “You do know that. I do believe I’d probably be impeached [if the women’s team wasn’t invited].”
Of course, the US women’s hockey team also won gold during the Milan-Cortina Games, having beaten North American neighbours Canada 2–1 on 19 February.
Following Trump’s comments, a USA Hockey spokesperson confirmed that the women’s team would not be taking up the invitation but did not directly refer to the president’s remarks.
“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 spokesperson said.
“Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate.”
The spokesperson added: “They were honoured to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgement.”
Topics: Ice Hockey, Donald Trump
Luke Davies