U.S. women's hockey team declines invitation to attend the State of the Union
CBS Sports
by
Bryan DeArdo
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The U.S. women's hockey team has declined an invitation to attend the State of the Union address following their historic gold medal win at the Winter Olympics. The decision was attributed to scheduling conflicts due to academic and professional commitments after the Games. President Donald Trump had humorously suggested during a call with the men's hockey team that he might face impeachment if he didn't extend the invitation to the women's team, which also won gold, marking the first time both teams swept the medals since 1980.
The women's team achieved their victory after an intense overtime win against Canada, while the men's team followed suit with a similar triumph. This dual success brought attention to the team's achievements and their growing recognition in sports history. The situation highlights the intersection of sports and politics, emphasizing the importance of gender equality in athletics and the broader cultural impact of such victories.
This story matters because it underscores the significance of female athletes' accomplishments on the global stage and how they are recognized by political figures. It also reflects the evolving role of women in sports, where their achievements are increasingly celebrated and scrutinized, adding a layer of public interest beyond mere athletic performance.
The team's refusal to attend the State of the Union, while respecting their commitments post-Games, showcases their professionalism and focus on their sport. The broader context of their historic wins and the attention they've garnered
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/23/2026