BREAKINGNEWS; United States men’s national ice hockey team who win Gold at Olympic Declines Donald Trump’s Invitation to Attend his State of the Union Address, as they states reason why

The **United States men’s national ice hockey team**, fresh off their dramatic gold medal victory at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, has declined President Donald Trump’s invitation to attend his State of the Union address on Tuesday evening.

The team, which secured its first Olympic men’s hockey gold since the legendary 1980 “Miracle on Ice” with a thrilling 2-1 overtime win against rival Canada, received the invitation during a celebratory locker-room phone call from Trump on Sunday.

In the widely shared video, Trump praised the players’ performance and extended the offer to join him at the Capitol, even joking about logistics like sending a military plane.

However, in a brief statement released Monday, a team spokesperson cited scheduling conflicts and a desire to focus on post-Olympic commitments as the primary reasons for declining.

“We are deeply honored by the recognition and grateful for the congratulations on our historic achievement,” the statement read. “Due to prior obligations and the timing immediately following the Games, the team will not be able to attend.”

The decision comes amid ongoing discussions around the invitation, which also extended to the U.S. women’s hockey team—gold medalists in their own right after defeating Canada 2-1. The women’s team publicly declined earlier Monday, citing academic and professional commitments.

Trump’s call to the men’s team included lighthearted banter about ensuring the women’s squad was also invited to avoid potential backlash, drawing laughter from players in the moment. While some commentators have debated the optics of the interactions, the men’s team’s polite refusal appears rooted in practical rather than political considerations.

The squad is expected to continue celebrations and preparations for returning to NHL duties, with several players already indicating travel plans unrelated to Washington, D.C. The White House has not yet commented on the declination.