Olbermann reacts to White House invitation
Former ESPN broadcaster Keith Olbermann mocked the U.S. men’s hockey team after they appeared open to accepting an invitation from President Donald Trump to attend his State of the Union address.
Both the men’s and women’s teams recently won Olympic gold against Canada at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. Jack Hughes sealed the men’s victory in overtime, while Megan Keller did the same for the women.
After the win, Trump invited both teams to attend his speech. However, the women’s team declined, citing academic and professional commitments. USA Hockey said the athletes appreciated the recognition but could not attend due to prior obligations.
Olbermann praised the women’s decision. On social media, he claimed they refused to act as political props. Then he turned his attention to the men’s team.
Criticism aimed at the men’s team
Video showed Trump calling the men’s team in their locker room after their gold medal win. During the call, he suggested arranging travel for them to attend the address. At one point, a player quickly responded, “We’re in,” before Trump finished speaking.
Olbermann sharply criticized that reaction. He accused the players of failing to see the long term impact of appearing at a political event. His comments added to his long record of public criticism toward Trump.
Meanwhile, it remains unclear whether the men’s team officially accepted the invitation.
Social media backlash and celebration
Olbermann also objected to a White House post that featured an eagle attacking a goose after the U.S. defeated Canada 2 to 1. The win marked the first American men’s hockey gold since the famous United States men’s national ice hockey team victory at the 1980 Winter Olympics.
The image appeared to reference comments previously made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about national pride in hockey.
While Olbermann criticized the administration’s tone, some players welcomed the president’s outreach. Forward Matthew Tkachuk said it was an honor to hear from the president and represent the country after their victory.
The team continued celebrating in Miami, including a stop at E11EVEN Miami. The NHL regular season resumes Wednesday, while the Professional Women’s Hockey League returns Thursday.
During the phone call, Trump joked that he would face impeachment if he failed to invite the women’s team as well. He also mentioned possibly sending a military plane to bring the players to Washington.
Trump’s State of the Union address is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET on Tuesday.
