Hilary Knight Calls Trump’s Invite a ‘Distasteful Joke’
US women’s national hockey team captain Hilary Knight has responded to comments made by former President Donald Trump following the team’s gold medal win at the 2026 Winter Olympics, characterizing his remarks as a “distasteful joke.” The controversy stems from a phone call Trump made to the US men’s hockey team during their locker room celebration after winning gold on Sunday, where he suggested he would be impeached if the women’s team wasn’t invited to the State of the Union address.
Trump’s Comments and Initial Reaction
During the call, Trump stated, “I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do recognize that. I do believe I probably would be impeached [if the women’s team wasn’t invited].” This comment drew laughter from some members of the men’s team, a reaction that quickly went viral and sparked criticism.
Knight’s Response
Appearing on ESPN’s “SportsCenter” on Wednesday, Knight expressed her disappointment, stating, “I thought it was sort of a distasteful joke, and unfortunately that is overshadowing a lot of the success, the success of just women at the Olympics carrying for Team USA and having amazing gold medal feats.” She emphasized the team’s focus on celebrating their accomplishments, including their third gold medal in program history and the simultaneous gold medal wins by both the men’s and women’s teams.
Knight further stated, “We’re just focusing on celebrating the women in our room, the extraordinary efforts, and continue to celebrate three gold medals in program history as well as the double gold for both men’s and women’s at the same time. And really not detract from that with a distasteful joke.”
Support Between Teams
The incident also prompted responses from players on the men’s team. Jack Hughes, who scored the game-winning goal in the men’s overtime victory, attempted to address the backlash, saying, “People are so negative about things. I think everyone in that locker room knows how much we support [the women’s team], how proud we are of them. The same way we feel about them, they feel about us.”
Knight acknowledged the support between the teams, expressing regret that the controversy overshadowed their connection. “I think the guys were in a tough spot, so I think it’s a shame this storyline and narrative has kind of blown up and overshadowing that connection and genuine interest in one another and cheering each other on,” she said.
Team’s Decision and Future Plans
The US women’s hockey team declined an invitation to attend Trump’s State of the Union address, citing “timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments.” Trump mentioned during his speech that the women’s team would visit the Oval Office “soon,” but USA Hockey has not yet confirmed any plans for such a visit.
Knight’s Legacy and Broader Implications
The 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics marked what Knight has said will be the final chapter of her decorated career. She holds the record for the most Olympic goals (15) and points (33) of any American hockey player, male or female. Knight concluded by emphasizing the need to reframe conversations around women’s achievements. “I think this is a really solid learning point to focus on how we talk about women, not only in sport but in industry,” she said. “Women aren’t less than. Our achievements shouldn’t be overshadowed by anything else other than how great they are.”