BOSTON (AP) — On Thursday, President Donald Trump reached out to the U.S. hockey team to extend his best wishes for their 4 Nations Face-Off final against Canada.
USA Hockey shared a photograph on social media featuring general manager Bill Guerin in the locker room, proudly holding a phone. After their morning skate, players expressed their gratitude for Trump’s call, deeming it a privilege.
“It was incredible to receive his support,” said U.S. center J.T. Miller. “It’s a significant gesture for him to carve out five minutes from his busy schedule to connect with us. It’s just another surreal moment for us in this tournament.”
U.S. defenseman Noah Hanifin added, “We hope to secure the win tonight for our country and for Trump.”
On Truth Social, Trump announced he would be tuning in, expressing his hope that the U.S. team would triumph over Canada, reiterating his wish for Canada to become America’s 51st state. Montreal fans booed “The Star-Spangled Banner” before games as tensions escalate due to Trump’s remarks about the potential statehood and tariff threats.
Since his inauguration, Trump has consistently proposed the notion of Canada becoming the 51st state as part of his trade conflict with the country. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has firmly rejected this idea.
When asked about Trump and hockey on Thursday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt responded that the president will be “watching for the United States to claim victory.”
“Members of the U.S. team were thrilled with President Trump’s address to them,” Leavitt said. “I believe they are going to release a video of that call. He is eager to watch the game tonight, and we anticipate a U.S. victory over our soon-to-be 51st state, Canada.”
As the tournament moved to Boston, U.S. fans at TD Garden lightly booed “O Canada” before a match against Finland on Monday afternoon.
The U.S. defeated Canada 3-1 in their round-robin clash on Saturday night, a match that witnessed three fights within the initial nine seconds. Matthew Tkachuk, who ignited the first fight, stated that the anthem booing did not factor into the decision for him, his brother Brady, and Miller to engage in fisticuffs.
Earlier this week, Guerin told Fox News that the U.S. would be pleased to have Trump attend the final. However, Trump had a prior engagement, addressing the Republican Governors Association Meeting in Washington.
Referring to his desire for Canada to be designated as the 51st U.S. state, Trump stated on Truth Social: “If Governor Trudeau wishes to join us, he would be most welcome. Good luck to everyone, and have a GREAT game tonight. So exciting!”
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Contributions made by White House reporter Darlene Superville and AP Hockey Writer Stephen Whyno in Washington.
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AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/NHL
