WASHINGTON — President Trump welcomed the gold medal-winning US men’s Olympic hockey team to the Oval Office before their attendance at the State of the Union address.
Winger Matthew Tkachuk allowed Trump to wear his gold medal during the meeting, following the president’s promise to fly the team to DC on a military aircraft.
Trump jokingly remarked, “I’m not giving it back,” as he sported the medal, eliciting laughter from Tkachuk’s teammates.
Only parts of the White House visit were shared online by Trump’s team, as reporters and cameras were not present during the private meeting.
Trump invited both the men and women’s Olympic hockey teams to the State of the Union, with the women’s team declining the invitation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson mentioned the logistical challenges of accommodating the teams on short notice.
Following their victory over Canada, the team will be acknowledged by Trump during the address, continuing a tradition that dates back to the Reagan era.
The team departed from Miami on an Air Force plane, showcasing their celebrations on social media.
After returning from Italy, the champions enjoyed a steak dinner and partied at a popular Miami nightclub, E11even.
