Wednesday, February 25, 2026- Members of the U.S. women’s national hockey team have declined an invitation from Donald Trump to attend the State of the Union address, according to multiple reports. The decision places the team at the center of a broader conversation about the intersection of sports, politics, and personal values in a deeply polarized climate.
The invitation followed the team’s recent international success, including strong performances at global competitions such as the IIHF Women's World Championship. While athletes have traditionally been recognized at major political events after significant achievements, several players reportedly felt attending would conflict with their personal principles.
No unified public statement detailing specific reasons was immediately released, but the move reflects a pattern of athletes exercising greater agency over political associations.
The response has drawn mixed reactions nationwide. Supporters argue that players have the right to decline invitations without backlash, while critics say national teams should remain above partisan divides. The episode underscores a continuing shift in American sports culture, where athletes are increasingly willing to take public positions — even when it means stepping away from high-profile political stages.
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