Hellebuyck’s Olympic Triumph Overshadowed by Controversy

Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck played a pivotal role in the U.S. Men’s hockey team’s gold medal victory at the Winter Olympics, but the celebration has been significantly overshadowed by a contentious phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump and the team’s subsequent reaction.

Kinew Criticizes Team’s Conduct

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has publicly criticized the U.S. Men’s hockey team’s behavior, stating they were way offside when it comes to promoting sport and respect. Kinew’s comments came after reports surfaced of the team laughing at disparaging remarks made by President Trump about the gold medal-winning U.S. Women’s hockey team.

“The women’s team, for America, deserved a lot better than they got, both from the men’s team but likewise from their president,”

Wab Kinew, Manitoba Premier

Trump’s Call and Aftermath

Following their gold medal win over Canada, the U.S. Men’s team received a phone call from President Trump, who invited them to his State of the Union address. The President reportedly added that he would have to invite the women’s team as well, or risk impeachment, a comment that reportedly elicited laughter from players.

Several players, including Hellebuyck, attended the White House and were later recognized at the Capitol during Trump’s speech. The U.S. Women’s team declined the invitation to attend.

Hellebuyck’s Perspective

Hellebuyck, who was instrumental in the U.S. Men’s victory, acknowledged the controversy. He stated, We were so excited, on Cloud 9 coming into that (dressing) room, and then some things unfolded. And I’m sorry that that’s the way that they unfolded. He added that the team’s intention was not to cause offense, saying, It’s very unfortunate (with) the criticism that we’re taking for all this, given that that’s not the way we intended it. He also revealed the team used the women’s gold medal game as motivation.

President Trump also announced Hellebuyck would receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Fan Reaction and Future Outlook

While celebrated for his Olympic performance, Hellebuyck faces a complex return to Winnipeg, where he plays for the Jets. Some fans expressed mixed feelings, acknowledging his skill while lamenting his role in defeating Canada. One fan questioned, Why couldn’t you be that guy in the Jets uniform instead of just always in a Team USA uniform?

Hellebuyck expressed awareness of the situation, stating, To travel into a moment like that where now I have to kind of break the hearts (of the fans) of where I play, it’s tough mentally. He hopes to earn the same level of support in Winnipeg as he did on the international stage.

The Jets are currently battling for a playoff spot and Hellebuyck is expected to rejoin the team for a game against the Ducks in Anaheim.

FAQ

• What did Wab Kinew say about the U.S. Men’s hockey team? He criticized their behavior and said they were way offside in promoting sport and respect.
• What was President Trump’s involvement? He called the team after their win and made comments about the women’s team that were met with laughter.
• What did Connor Hellebuyck say about the controversy? He expressed regret for how things unfolded and emphasized the team’s positive intentions.

Pro Tip: Remember that sportsmanship extends beyond the playing field. Respect for opponents and teammates is crucial for a positive sporting environment.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 27, 2026.