WASHINGTON — USA! USA! USA! In what might be the most patriotic Tuesday of the year, President Donald Trump has officially invited the United States men’s Olympic hockey team to Tuesday night’s State of the Union address and to the White House to celebrate their dramatic gold medal run in the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. The Americans delivered a stirring 2-1 overtime win against long-time rival Canada, a victory that snapped a 46-year drought and sent a wave of red-white-blue pride across the nation.
The invitation came via a jubilant phone call captured in the locker room shortly after the final horn sounded in Italy, where the U.S. squad — featuring stars like Jack Hughes, who scored the game-winning goal 1 minute, 41 seconds into overtime, and Connor Hellebuyck, who turned aside 41 of 42 shots — clinched the country’s first men’s Olympic hockey gold since the famed Miracle on Ice of 1980.
Fans across the country woke early that Sunday to witness a moment that will be replayed for generations — Team USA skating off the ice with gold medals and hearts full of pride. The win not only capped a thrilling tournament but also capped a historic Winter Games for the United States, which finished with a total of 12 gold medals — the most ever by the U.S. at a single Winter Olympics — and 33 overall.
Of course, no great American celebration is complete without an invitation back home, and Trump didn’t disappoint. In addition to inviting the men’s hockey champions to be honored as guests of the nation in the Capitol chamber, he suggested a White House celebration would follow — a moment to salute the hard work, grit and unwavering American spirit embodied by these Olympic heroes.
It wasn’t just the men who carried the maple leaf-shaking drama; the U.S. women’s hockey team, fresh off their own overtime gold medal win over Canada just days earlier, were also extended an invitation. But due to scheduling conflicts and prior commitments after the Games, the women graciously declined, grateful for the acknowledgment but tied to obligations rooted in academics and professional careers.
Whether they skate through the Capitol doors or don their medals under the glow of the White House, these athletes have already etched their place in American lore. From the roar of the Olympic crowd in Milan to the hallowed halls of the nation’s capital, their journey showcases the unifying power of sport and the pride of wearing the stars and stripes on sport’s grandest stage.
This week, Washington may just feel a little louder, a little prouder and painted — proudly — in red, white and blue as the nation salutes its newest Olympic gold medalists. USA, baby! 🇺🇸
Check out all EasySportz NHL Content Here
College Football Viewing Guide
