The U.S. Men’s Hockey Controversy, Explained
The Cut • • sports
Key Points:
- After Team USA's men's hockey team won gold at the Winter Olympics, FBI director Kash Patel joined their locker-room celebration, drinking beer and singing with the players, which sparked backlash among fans.
- Patel facilitated a phone call from President Donald Trump to the team, during which Trump invited them to the State of the Union address and made a joke about reluctantly inviting the women's team.
- The U.S. women's hockey team, also gold medalists, declined the State of the Union invitation due to scheduling conflicts, with a spokesperson expressing gratitude but inability to attend.
- Fans reacted with mixed feelings, with some expressing disappointment over the men's team's behavior, while players like Jack Hughes defended their actions, emphasizing their pride in representing the U.S.
