Team USA men’s hockey star Jack Hughes has responded to criticism after his gold-winning team was filmed laughing at President Donald Trump’s joke about inviting the women’s team to the State of the Union. The video showed Trump telling the men’s team he would have to bring the women’s team as well, adding that if he didn't, he would likely be impeached, which drew laughter from the players.
Hughes, who scored the gold-winning goal against Canada after losing two teeth, told the Daily Mail at a victory party in Miami that “everything is so political.” He defended the women’s team for declining the invitation due to scheduling conflicts and addressed the backlash, saying, “People are so negative out there and they are just trying to find a reason to put people down.”
The 24-year-old New Jersey Devils player emphasised the close relationship between the men’s and women’s teams, stating, “I think everyone in that locker room knows how much we support them.” However, he did not apologise for the planned White House visit, calling it a patriotic opportunity to represent the US regardless of political views.
Hughes’ mother, Ellen Hughes, a player development consultant for the women’s team, also commented, saying the players care about unity and the country. She highlighted the camaraderie between the teams, noting how they cheered each other on during the Olympics.
The men’s team won gold with a 2-1 overtime victory against Canada, while the women’s team also secured gold. The controversy follows another viral video showing FBI Director Kash Patel celebrating with the men’s team in the locker room after their win.
