The captain of America’s gold medal-winning women’s Olympic hockey team has spoken out against remarks made by President Donald Trump following the men’s team victory.
Hilary Knight expressed her displeasure with Trump’s comments after he extended an invitation to the men’s Olympic hockey team to attend the State of the Union address. During that invitation, Trump remarked, “I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that.”
The President continued by suggesting that failing to include the women’s squad would result in his impeachment, stating, “I do believe I probably would be impeached” if he didn’t welcome the female athletes as well.
Speaking on ESPN Wednesday, Knight shared her reaction to Trump’s words: “I thought it was sort of a distasteful joke, and, unfortunately, that is overshadowing a lot of the success, the success of just women at the Olympics carrying for Team USA and having amazing gold-medal feats.”
The veteran team leader emphasized her focus on celebrating achievements rather than dwelling on controversy: “We’re just focusing on celebrating the women in our room, the extraordinary efforts, and continue to celebrate three gold medals in program history, as well as the double gold for both men’s and women’s at the same time. And really not detract from that with a distasteful joke.”
Despite some male team members laughing during Trump’s remarks, Knight expressed understanding for their position and maintained respect for the men’s team.
“I think there’s a genuine level of support there and respect,” she said regarding the men’s and women’s Olympic teams. “I think that’s being overshadowed by a quick lapse. I think the guys were in a tough spot, so I think it’s a shame this storyline and narrative has kind of blown up and overshadowing that connection and genuine interest in one another and cheering each other on.”
Most members of the men’s Olympic hockey team attended Tuesday’s White House visit before proceeding to Capitol Hill for the State of the Union address. The athletes received applause from both political parties when Trump introduced them in the House chamber.
The women’s hockey team had already declined Trump’s Monday invitation, releasing a statement explaining: “Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment.”
Knight, age 36, made Olympic history during the gold medal match against Canada by scoring her record-breaking 15th U.S. Olympic goal with 2:04 remaining in regulation, tying the game 1-1. Teammate Megan Keller sealed the victory with an overtime goal at 4:07.
This marks Knight’s second Olympic gold medal across five Olympic appearances. The Seattle Torrent forward has also captured a record 10 gold medals in IIHF World Women’s Championship competition.
