The gold medal-winning U.S. women’s Olympic hockey team has declined an invitation to attend President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address, citing scheduling conflicts following their historic Olympic victory. The invitation came after Trump congratulated the men’s hockey team by phone during their celebration of their own gold medal win and offered to send a military plane to bring them to Washington, D.C.
During the call, Trump spoke to the men’s team over speakerphone, held by former FBI official Kash Patel, and promoted the upcoming State of the Union. “We’re giving the State of the Union speech on Tuesday night. I could send a military plane or something, if you would like to. It’s the coolest night. It’s the biggest speech,” the president said, receiving enthusiastic cheers from the team. Trump then added that the women’s team would need to attend as well, joking that failing to include them could result in impeachment. The comment sparked laughter among the players and generated widespread discussion on social media.
Both the men’s and women’s teams were formally invited to attend the address. While it remains unclear whether the men’s team will attend, the women officially declined. A spokesperson for the women’s team released a statement:
“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. Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.”
The decision reflects the team’s packed schedule, as many players return to college programs and professional hockey commitments immediately following the Olympics. The Professional Women’s Hockey League resumes play shortly after their return, while the National Hockey League continues with its season for male players.
Both the U.S. men’s and women’s hockey teams achieved remarkable gold medal victories against Canada, each winning 2-1 in overtime. The women’s team secured their triumph on Thursday, while the men followed with their own dramatic victory on Sunday. Jack Hughes, who scored the men’s winning goal, highlighted the significance of his female teammates’ performance. “The first person I thought of was Megan Keller, who had the gold medal goal the other night,” Hughes said, recalling their encounter in the Olympic cafeteria. “I just said how happy and proud I am of their group, and that was one of my first thoughts, was her.”
This marks another milestone for the women’s team, who previously won gold at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics during Trump’s first term and were invited to the White House for a broader Olympic celebration. The men’s team achieved their first Olympic gold since the iconic “Miracle on Ice” in 1980, completing a historic week for U.S. hockey.
While the State of the Union invitation was an honor, the women’s team emphasized their ongoing commitments and the priority of returning to their professional and collegiate schedules. Their decision underscores the demanding nature of elite-level hockey and the need to balance celebratory events with existing obligations.
Ultimately, both teams returned from Italy with historic victories that highlight the depth and talent of U.S. hockey, as the women and men prepare to reintegrate into their regular season play while celebrating their Olympic achievements. The women’s team’s choice not to attend the address reflects a focus on career responsibilities while maintaining pride in their accomplishments.
