Multiple reports on Monday said the U.S. women’s ice hockey team that secured Olympic gold by beating Canada has turned down an invitation to the State of the Union address by President Donald Trump in Washington this week, citing scheduling conflicts.
USA Hockey conveyed its appreciation for the invitation and the recognition of the team’s recent victory, but said the athletes would not be available when the president delivers his speech to Congress at 9 p.m. ET (0200 GMT) on Tuesday.
"Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Games, the athletes are unable to participate," USA Hockey said in a statement. "They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment."
The women’s national team captured gold last week at the Milano Cortina Olympics, defeating Canada 2-1 in an overtime finish.
The U.S. men’s team, which also defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime to win gold in Milan, has been invited to attend the State of the Union and to a White House event the following day. At this time, their attendance has not been confirmed by officials.
Reports say the invitation to the men’s team followed a celebratory locker-room exchange after their victory, when players accepted a phone call from Trump and he extended the invitation during that call.
This development leaves the two Olympic champion U.S. teams in different positions regarding participation in White House events this week: the women formally declined because of preexisting academic and professional obligations after the Games, while the men’s presence remains uncertain pending confirmation.
The teams’ recent on-ice successes are identical in scoreline and opponent, with both squads overcoming Canada 2-1 in overtime to claim gold at their respective tournaments.