US women’s ice hockey captain responds to ‘distasteful’ Trump remark
South China Morning Post
by Agence France-PresseFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hilary Knight, captain of the US women’s Olympic ice hockey team, expressed disappointment over President Donald Trump’s “distasteful joke” that overshadowed the athletes’ achievements at the Milan-Cortina Games. While the men’s ice hockey team received a congratulatory call from Trump following their gold medal victory, the women were left in a wait-and-see situation regarding an invitation to the State of the Union address. Knight highlighted the stark contrast in treatment between the two teams, emphasizing the broader issue of gender equality in sports recognition and funding.
The US women’s team had triumphed at the games, showcasing their skill and determination on the global stage. However, the attention quickly shifted when Trump made a remark that was perceived as disrespectful to the women athletes. This incident reflects a recurring debate over whether female athletes receive the same level of acknowledgment and support as their male counterparts in sports.
The broader implications of this situation extend beyond sports into issues of gender equality and representation. Advocates argue that such disparities highlight the need for greater awareness and action to ensure fair treatment of female athletes, both on and off the field. Campaigns like #MoreEqual emphasize the importance of equal opportunities and recognition for women in sports at all levels.
Readers interested in global news and gender issues will find this story relevant due to its intersection of sports, politics, and equality. The contrasting experiences of the men’s and women’s teams underscore the ongoing challenges faced by female athletes in achieving parity with their male counterparts in both achievement and recognition. This narrative adds depth to the conversation about inclusivity and fairness in international competitions and leadership support for athletes.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/25/2026