The female hockey players from the USA national team turned their backs on Donald Trump. An inappropriate remark angered the athletes
Following the unfortunate remark made by the President of the USA, Donald Trump (79), the women's national hockey team, which has just won the gold medal at the Winter Olympics, has taken a firm position: it will not go to Washington for the State of the Nation Address.
Donald Trump, at the presidium PHOTO EPA
The US national team turned down Donald Trump, who was waiting for the State of the Nation Address, one of the most important moments in American politics, an annual event in which the president addresses the House of Representatives and the Senate to take stock of the national and international situation.
This “No thanks” comes after another gaffe from Trump, who, immediately after the men's national team won gold in the final against Canada on Sunday, called the locker room where the players were celebrating, saying he wished they were in Washington.
During the call, Trump also said, “I have to invite the girls over too because I'd probably get sued if I didn't invite themThe players burst out laughing, but the girls didn't take the remark well at all, feeling that they weren't actually wanted, just tolerated at the event.
Controversy was immediately fueled, especially since FBI director Kash Patel was among the beer-drinking and singing players. A video of him drinking, jumping, cheering and splashing the athletes is making the rounds on the internet. At one point, a gold medal appeared around his neck.
The reaction of the women's team was more calm and diplomatic, but commentators note that it is a categorical refusal. “We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal winning women's ice hockey team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement”, said a spokesperson for USA Hockey, via Monica Alba, from NBC News.
“Due to time constraints and academic and professional commitments already scheduled after the Games, female athletes cannot participate“, the announcement says.
Donald Trump had planned to attend the men's final but canceled his visit at the last minute.
