Overview
- The U.S. men’s team received a hero’s welcome during the State of the Union, with a staged late entrance and broad applause, as President Trump said he would award goalie Connor Hellebuyck the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
- USA Hockey said the women’s champions declined the invitation to attend the address due to scheduling as well as academic and professional commitments.
- Before the address, the men’s team was feted at the White House, though several players were absent as they rejoined their NHL clubs.
- The White House’s official X account posted an image of a bald eagle attacking a Canada goose in reply to a 2025 Justin Trudeau message, drawing international quips including from Russian negotiator Kirill Dmitriev.
- FBI Director Kash Patel celebrated with Team USA in Milan and entered the locker room, with Le Parisien reporting his Italy trip cost was estimated at $100,000, which drew criticism.