Why did Team USA women’s hockey turn down Donald Trump’s State of the Union invite?

Fresh off a dramatic Olympic gold medal run, the U.S. women’s hockey team made another headline. The players declined an invitation from President Donald Trump to attend Tuesday night’s State of the Union address. The decision came days after both the women’s and men’s teams completed a historic sweep of gold medals at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games.USA Hockey confirmed the move Monday, citing scheduling issues tied to travel and professional commitments. The announcement followed Trump’s public remarks about inviting both teams, including a lighthearted comment that skipping the women would create political trouble. The White House has not publicly detailed further plans regarding either team’s attendance.

Why the U.S. women’s hockey team chose not to attend the State of the Union

While the news dropped as a shocker to many, a USA Hockey spokesperson addressed the decision in a formal statement.

"We are sincerely grateful for the invitation extended to our gold medal–winning U.S. Women's Hockey Team and deeply appreciate the recognition of their extraordinary achievement," the spokesperson said. "Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate.

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The spokesperson added that the players were "honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment."

Many athletes were traveling back to North America on commercial flights and had prior academic and league obligations. The Professional Women’s Hockey League resumes play Thursday. Travel plans were already in motion before the invitation was extended.The women’s team earned its third Olympic gold medal after defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime. Hilary Knight forced extra time with a late third-period goal. Megan Keller sealed the title in three-on-three overtime with the golden goal.

The victory ended an eight-year wait for Olympic gold.

Donald Trump on inviting USA women’s hockey team for the State of the Union

Trump first invited the men’s team during a call after their overtime win over Canada. During that conversation, he referenced the women’s squad."I must tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do know that," Trump said. He later joked, "I do believe I probably would be impeached."The men’s team also captured gold in overtime, their first Olympic title since 1980. It remains unclear whether the men will attend the address. NHL scheduling presents challenges, as the regular season resumes Wednesday.President Trump is set to give the State of the Union address on Tuesday at 9 p.m. from the U.S. Capitol.