Trump invites US Olympic hockey heroes to State of the Union in locker-room call

Guardian Sport

by Bryan Armen Graham in Milan

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Donald Trump congratulated the U.S. men's hockey team on their dramatic Olympic gold medal win against Canada and invited them to attend the upcoming State of the Union address. The President made a FaceTime Audio call to the team shortly after their 2-1 overtime victory at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, praising their "unbelievable" performance and telling them they had created a moment that would be remembered for decades. Trump's gesture highlights his ongoing interest in sports diplomacy and leveraging athletes' achievements for national pride. The call took place in the locker room following their historic win, with FBI Director Kash Patel also joining the conversation. This marked the latest instance of Trump engaging directly with athletes to celebrate their successes on the international stage. The President has a history of reaching out to Olympic medalists, often using such moments to connect with the public and promote a sense of unity. The U.S. hockey team's victory was a thrilling conclusion to their Olympic campaign, reversing an initial 1-0 deficit in overtime. The game was played in Milan, Italy, as part of the 2026 Winter Olympics test events. The team's resilience and determination resonated with fans worldwide, making it a memorable moment for both sports enthusiasts and the nation. This story underscores the intersection of sports and politics, where athletes become symbols of national achievement. Trump's invitation to the State of the Union further amplifies their victory, turning it into a broader narrative of American success. For sports enthusiasts, this highlights how athletic triumphs can inspire public sentiment and even influence political agendas. In an era where sports and politics often intersect, Trump's call to the hockey team serves as a reminder of the power of athletics to unite people and create lasting memories. The invitation to Washington also reflects the President's strategy to use sports achievements as a platform for national pride and inspiration.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/23/2026