A golden sweep by Team USA in Olympic hockey led to celebrations that got complicated and political

The United States swept the hockey gold medals at the Winter Olympics for the first time, beating Canada 2-1 in overtime in both the men’s and women’s tournaments and finishing the tournaments unbeaten.

It set off a celebration that quickly became political:

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The celebrations

— Women’s team: The players largely steered away from politics. Many said they failed to notice Vice President JD Vance, his family and guests — and large security detail — attending two preliminary round games where they sat directly opposite the U.S. bench. They celebrated Team USA’s third Olympic gold medal in women’s hockey win by wrapping themselves in the stars and stripes following Megan Keller’s overtime goal.

“We’re America’s team in the best way and through positivity and trying to inspire through sport,” captain Hilary Knight said. “And whatever political climate is going on, we’re just trying to have a positive impact through our play, and obviously show up and represent our country to the best of our ability, because we are proud Americans and there’s great unity that we can find through sport together.”

— Men’s team: The celebration following Jack Hughes’ goal was dramatic and engaging, with Hughes displaying a toothless grin, and others paying tribute to late player Johnny Gaudreau, who died in August 2024. The men were joined in the locker room by FBI Director Kash Patel and got a speakerphone call from President Donald Trump.

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White House invitations

— Men’s team: During his call, Trump invited the team to attend his State of the Union address two days later before adding he would have to invite the women’s team as well. He later said if he didn’t invite the women, he’d risk being impeached, which led to the players laughing at a comment many saw as sexist. A number of players joined Trump at the White House on Tuesday and were later cheered at the Capitol during his speech.

— Women’s team: The team didn’t receive a congratulatory call from the president, and didn’t learn of the White House invitation until hours after the men’s game ended. The team…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/golden-sweep-team-usa-olympic-194834485.html

Author : JOHN WAWROW

Publish date : 2026-02-27 19:48:00

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