Hilary Knight wants focus on the US women’s Olympic success, not Trump’s ‘distasteful’ joke - AP News
AP News
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hilary Knight, a prominent figure in women's soccer, has called for attention to shift away from political distractions and focus on the achievements of US women's Olympic teams. In response to recent commentary surrounding President Trump's 'distasteful' joke about female athletes, Knight emphasizes the importance of celebrating the hard work and success of the Olympians rather than allowing such remarks to overshadow their accomplishments.
Knight, a former member of the 1998 World Cup-winning US women's team, highlighted how moments like the Olympics provide a platform to showcase the talent and dedication of female athletes. She stressed that these events are about unity and achievement, not political debates. Her perspective underscores the broader conversation around balancing media coverage of sports with external distractions.
The US women's Olympic teams have consistently demonstrated excellence on the global stage, earning numerous medals across various sports. Knight believes that prioritizing these achievements helps to inspire future generations of athletes and reinforces the value of sport in society. By shifting focus away from divisive comments, she argues, we can better honor the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines the Olympic Games.
This stance matters because it reflects a broader cultural shift toward valuing women's sports and their contributions to society. Knight's perspective challenges readers to consider how media coverage shapes public perception and whether there is an overemphasis on political narratives at the expense of celebrating athletic success.
Ultimately, Knight's call for unity highlights the importance of fostering a positive environment that respects both athletes' hard work and the broader societal impact of sports. Her message serves as a reminder that moments like the Olympics are about more than individual performances—they are about collective pride and achievement on a global stage.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/26/2026