In a candid moment of reflection, a prominent member of the gold medal-winning U.S. men's hockey team has publicly expressed regret over his team's reaction to a joke made by President Donald Trump aimed at the women's squad. The incident occurred during a celebratory phone call following the men's dramatic overtime victory over Canada at the Olympics.
Goaltender's Public Admission of Regret
Speaking to reporters in Boston on Wednesday, goaltender Jeremy Swayman addressed what he termed the "negative reaction" from the locker room. "We should have reacted differently. We know that," Swayman stated unequivocally. The Boston Bruins player emphasized the deep respect his team holds for their female counterparts, adding, "We are so excited for the women's team. We have so much respect for the women's team, and to share that gold medal with them is something that we're forever grateful for."
The Controversial Presidential Quip
The controversy stems from a Sunday night call President Trump made to the newly crowned Olympic champions. During the conversation, Trump quipped about inviting both teams to the nation's capital, noting, "I must tell you, we're gonna have to bring the women's team, you do know that." He added humorously that he probably "would be impeached" if he didn't extend the invitation. This remark elicited laughter from the men's team in their celebratory locker room atmosphere.
Teammate's Perspective on the Moment
Jack Hughes, the star player who scored the winning goal in overtime for the U.S. team, provided context when asked about Swayman's reflection. "You're in the moment," explained the New Jersey Devils player. "We're blaring the music. They pause the music, and then the president calls. It is what it is now, but we have so much respect for the women's team, they have so much respect for us. We're all just proud Americans and we're happy that we both swept the Olympics."
Political Snubs and Team Responses
The incident has unfolded against a backdrop of political tensions. Notably, five members of the men's team declined Trump's invitation to attend his State of the Union address on Tuesday. Similarly, the women's team had previously snubbed the president's offer to attend the major speech, though Trump announced during his address that they would be visiting Washington D.C. "soon."
Women's Team Captain Weighs In
Hilary Knight, captain of the U.S. women's hockey team, characterized the president's gibe as "distasteful" but chose to focus on the positive aspects of their achievement. She insisted their victory served as a "great teaching point and really shines light on how women should be championed for their amazing feats." This statement underscores the broader conversation about gender equality in sports that has emerged from the Olympic success of both American hockey teams.
The episode highlights the complex intersection of sports, politics, and gender dynamics, with athletes navigating celebratory moments while remaining mindful of their responsibilities as role models and representatives of their sport.
