President Donald Trump sparked national attention Thursday by personally calling Team USA hockey players ahead of their championship showdown at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. The high-stakes final against Canada comes amid escalating political tensions linked to Trump’s controversial remarks about annexing Canada as the 51st state.
USA Hockey shared a viral locker room photo of GM Bill Guerin holding a phone to Trump during the pre-game pep talk. “It was surreal to have the President’s support,” center J.T. Miller told reporters.
“We’re pinching ourselves that he took time for us. Tonight’s about winning for America - and for him.”
Defenseman Noah Hanifin added fuel to the fire, stating: “Bringing home this trophy matters for our country and for President Trump.” The commander-in-chief doubled down on Truth Social, vowing to watch the game while reigniting his 51st state proposal: “Tell Prime Minister Trudeau - America’s door is open!”
The tournament has been marred by diplomatic fallout:
- Montreal fans booed the U.S. national anthem following Trump’s tariff threats
- Boston supporters retaliated by jeering “O Canada” before a Finland matchup
- Saturday’s preliminary game saw three fights within nine seconds of puck drop
Matthew Tkachuk, who ignited the historic brawl, dismissed claims that anthem tensions motivated the violence:
“This is hockey. We protect our team first.”
With security heightened at Boston’s TD Garden, Trump declined Guerin’s invitation to attend due to a Republican Governors Association speech. Analysts suggest the President’s engagement boosts the tournament’s visibility while complicating cross-border relations.
As face-off approaches, all eyes are on whether Team USA can repeat Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Canada - and how Trump’s polarizing involvement might impact future international hockey events.
