The U.S. women’s hockey team has issued a response after being invited by President Donald Trump to attend his State of the Union address on Tuesday.
The invitation followed backlash aimed at Trump over remarks made during a call with the U.S. men’s hockey team on Sunday evening (February 22).
Both the women’s and men’s squads captured gold medals at the Winter Olympics. The women secured their title by beating Canada on Thursday, and the men later defeated Canada on Sunday.
Footage of a phone conversation involving Trump, FBI Director Kash Patel, and the men’s team has circulated widely online. During the call, the president referenced the women’s team and said he intended to include them in an invitation extended to both groups.
“I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that,” Trump said, joking that he ‘probably would be impeached’.
Some viewers reacted negatively to the comments, with one person describing the call as “disgusting” and another labeling the exchange “vile.”
The women’s team has since declined the invitation, citing timing issues tied to travel plans and prior commitments.
In a statement, a team spokesperson said: “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.”
According to the Associated Press, the team only became aware of the invitation on Sunday evening, leaving little opportunity to adjust plans that were already in motion.
Newsweek also reports that several players are due to return to professional responsibilities this week, and that the team was expected to fly back to the U.S. on Monday evening, arriving in Atlanta.
It remains unclear whether the men’s team will attend the address.
After the decision became public, many people applauded the women’s team for turning down the invitation. However, it’s worth noting there’s nothing indicating the choice was driven by anything other than scheduling conflicts and travel logistics.
One person wrote: “I knew my girls wouldn’t disappoint us.”
Another said: “As they should. Tired of women’s sports being blatantly disrespected.”
While a third commented: “F**k yes. Women of principle. The men could (read: will not) learn something from this.”