US women’s hockey team captain: Trump joke ‘distasteful’
The Hill
by Max RegoFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hilary Knight, the captain of the U.S. women’s hockey team that won gold at the 2018 Winter Olympics, criticized President Trump’s recent joke about her squad as “distasteful” and “unfortunate.” In an interview, Knight emphasized that such comments should not overshadow the team’s achievements or the broader conversation around gender representation in sports and media. She highlighted the importance of using these moments to shed light on the challenges faced by women athletes and their representation.
The controversy arose after Trump made a remark during an appearance where he praised the U.S. hockey team but included a joke that many interpreted as belittling or objectifying. While some conservatives defended Trump’s comments, Knight’s response gained widespread support among feminists and sports advocates. She stressed that her focus remained on celebrating the team’s success and advocating for greater respect and recognition for women in athletics.
The incident reflects broader tensions over how female athletes are portrayed in public discourse. Critics argue that such jokes perpetuate harmful stereotypes about women in sports, which have long been underrepresented and undervalued compared to men’s sports. Knight’s remarks align with growing efforts to challenge these norms and promote gender equality in sports media.
This issue matters politically because it touches on larger debates about gender roles, representation, and the cultural value placed on women’s achievements. By speaking out, Knight not only defends her team but also contributes to a broader conversation about fairness and respect for female athletes. Her stance resonates with many who see this as a critical step toward achieving true equality in sports and society.
Ultimately, Knight’s response serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting women athletes and challenging outdated stereotypes. Her message encourages readers to focus on the accomplishments of female athletes rather than trivializing them with insensitive humor or dismissive remarks. This controversy highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equity and the role that public figures play in shaping these conversations.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/26/2026