US women's gold medal-winning team declines invitation from Trump to attend State of Union address - AP News
AP News
February 23, 2026
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The U.S. women’s gold medal-winning team has declined an invitation from President Donald Trump to attend the State of the Union address, according to AP News. The decision comes amid ongoing discussions about the role of athletes in political events and their public statements. While no official reason for the decline was provided, it is speculated that the team may have wanted to avoid being drawn into a partisan issue or prioritize focusing on their achievements without political distractions.
This move has sparked broader conversations about the intersection of sports and politics. Many believe the team’s decision reflects a growing trend among athletes to focus on their sport rather than engage in public political debates. Others argue that declining an invitation from the President sets a precedent for future interactions between sports figures and government officials, potentially creating tensions or misunderstandings.
The State of the Union address is one of the most prominent events in American politics, often used by the President to showcase national achievements and set the agenda for the year ahead. By refusing the invitation, the team may have aimed to maintain their neutrality or avoid being seen as endorsing any political stance. This decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising their focus on sports and others questioning whether they missed an opportunity to use their platform for influence.
Ultimately, this situation highlights the delicate balance athletes face when navigating public attention, media scrutiny, and political involvement. The team’s choice underscores the importance of personal and collective values in shaping their public image and interactions with government figures. As sports continue to play a significant role in culture and society, such decisions will likely remain a topic of interest and debate among fans and observers alike.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/23/2026