“People are so negative”: Jack Hughes responds to backlash after Donald Trump joke about women’s Olympic hockey team
Times of India
by SEHJAL GUPTAFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Jack Hughes, the 24-year-old star of Team USA men’s hockey, responded to backlash following President Donald Trump’s controversial remarks about the U.S. women’s Olympic hockey team during a congratulatory phone call. Trump, while praising the men’s team after their gold medal win at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, jokingly mentioned inviting the women’s team and humorously threatened impeachment if he didn’t. This sparked online criticism, with some fans urging the men’s team to reject the White House visit.
In an interview with the Daily Mail during a victory party in Miami, Hughes defended his teammates’ decision to accept the invitation, emphasizing their pride in representing the U.S. “We’re athletes,” he stated. “It’s patriotic to meet the president and be part of that moment.” He also dismissed the notion that the situation was being overblown, criticizing the negativity online for focusing on trivial matters.
Hughes highlighted the unity between the men’s and women’s hockey teams, stressing mutual respect and support. His mother, Ellen Hughes, echoed this sentiment in an interview with Today, emphasizing that both teams prioritize unity and patriotism over political distractions. She noted their shared focus on bringing pride to the country through their sport.
The women’s team declined the White House invitation due to scheduling conflicts, a decision Hughes supported as valid without implying any political statement. He emphasized that the athletes’ primary goal is to compete and represent their country, rather than engage in political debates.
This incident reflects broader discussions about sports diplomacy and the role of athletes in navigating public and political spaces. By focusing on unity and patriotism, Hughes and his team aim to maintain a positive message, aligning with global readers interested in how sports can transcend partisan divides and promote national pride.
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026