Did Donald Trump confirm Team USA women’s Winter Olympics ice hockey White House visit? Gold medal honor awaits

Donald Trump told the nation that the Team USA women’s ice hockey champions will visit the White House soon. He shared this update during his State of the Union address in Washington, D.C., while honoring the men’s team in front of Congress.

The news comes after a thrilling Winter Olympics run where the United States women’s team won the gold medal by beating Canada 2-1 in overtime. Defensewoman Megan Keller scored the game-winning goal in the extra period, sealing the victory in a tight contest.Just days later, the U.S. men’s team also defeated Canada in overtime to win gold, marking the program’s first Olympic gold since the famous 1980 “Miracle on Ice” team.

While the men accepted Trump’s invitation and visited the White House, the women earlier declined, citing scheduling conflicts. Now, Trump says they will be coming at a later date.

Donald Trump praises men’s team and updates on women’s visit during State of the Union

During the address, Donald Trump introduced the men’s hockey team to loud applause. Speaking about both teams’ wins, he said, “They beat a fantastic Canadian team in overtime as everybody saw, as did the American women who will soon be coming to the White House.”

The chamber stood and clapped as the men’s players were recognized.Earlier, the women’s team had said they could not attend because of “previously scheduled academic and professional commitments.” In a statement to NBC News, USA Hockey said, “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. 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.”Before the speech, the men’s team met Trump in the Oval Office. Photos and videos showed the players standing with him and posing with their gold medals. Donald Trump also announced that goaltender Connor Hellebuyck would receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, after his strong performance in the gold medal game.