U.S. Women's Hockey Team Declines State of the Union Invite

The U.S. women's ice hockey team, fresh off a gold medal victory at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, has declined an invitation to attend President Donald Trump's State of the Union address on Tuesday evening. The decision, announced on Monday, stems from prior academic and professional commitments for the athletes, according to a statement from USA Hockey.

Both the women's and men's U.S. teams secured Olympic gold by defeating Canada in overtime finals. The women clinched their 2-1 win on Thursday, marking a significant achievement in the sport. The men followed with their own 2-1 victory on Sunday, highlighted by a goal from 24-year-old Jack Hughes. Trump personally congratulated the men's team in a postgame phone call from their locker room, where he extended the invitation to the address and mentioned arranging travel, possibly via military transport. During the call, Trump noted the need to include the women's team as well, stating, "I must tell you, we're going to have to bring the women's team, you do know that," and adding that he might face impeachment otherwise. The players responded with cheers.

Trump also celebrated the men's win on Truth Social, posting,...