Matthews Addresses White House Visit and Team USA Controversy
Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews addressed the recent controversy surrounding the U.S. Men’s hockey team’s visit to the White House and President Donald Trump’s comments regarding the women’s team, stating it’s an honor to be invited “no matter who’s in office.” The team celebrated their Olympic gold medal win, the first for the U.S. Men’s team since the 1980 “Miracle on Ice,” with a visit to President Trump on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
The White House Visit and Trump’s Comments
Following their gold medal victory over Canada 2-1 in overtime – secured by Jack Hughes’ game-winning goal – the U.S. Men’s hockey team was invited to the White House by President Trump. The team was also present at the State of the Union address later that evening. However, a phone call between Trump and the team immediately after their win sparked criticism. During the call, Trump stated, “I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do grasp that,” adding, “I do believe I would be impeached.” Video of the team’s reaction, which included laughter, circulated widely on social media.
Response from Team Members
Matthews expressed regret over how the situation unfolded, saying, “We have nothing but love and respect for the women’s team and what they were able to accomplish.” He emphasized the pride in both the men’s and women’s teams bringing home gold medals for the United States.
U.S. Goaltender Jeremy Swayman, of the Boston Bruins, acknowledged the team could have handled the moment better. “We are so excited for the women’s team, and we have so much respect for the women’s team,” he said. Dallas Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger echoed this sentiment, stating, “There’s no one that supports women’s hockey more than me. They’re incredible and they deserve all the credit in the world.”
Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor admitted he didn’t recall much of the conversation, attributing it to the excitement of winning the gold medal.
Women’s Team Responds
Hayley Scamurra, a member of the U.S. Women’s hockey team, stated the team had received an outpouring of support following Trump’s comments. Hilary Knight, captain of the women’s team, called Trump’s remark “a distasteful joke” and expressed concern that it was overshadowing the team’s accomplishments.
Presidential Medal of Freedom for Hellebuyck
Despite the controversy, President Trump announced that Winnipeg Jets star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Hellebuyck, who made 41 saves in the gold-medal game, will be the first professional hockey player to receive this award.
Matthews Returns to Maple Leafs
Following the White House visit, Matthews rejoined the Toronto Maple Leafs. The team has yet to confirm his availability for Wednesday’s game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, with an update expected Wednesday morning.
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