U.S. women’s hockey rejected a White House invite after the president joked about also bringing them; their gold and Keller’s overtime winner suggest bettors may back Team USA in upcoming international futures, while political fallout could shift public-money lines.
Trump's Controversial Call to U.S. Hockey Champions
A video of the president congratulating the U.S. men’s hockey team after their gold-medal win circulated online, capturing an invitation to the State of the Union and the White House. The call took a contentious turn when the president quipped about also bringing the Olympic team, sparking immediate backlash and widespread discussion.
Women's Team Declines White House Invitation
The U.S. women’s hockey team formally declined the White House visit, citing timing and preexisting academic and professional commitments following the Games. Team officials expressed gratitude for the recognition while confirming athletes were unable to attend.
Statement and Reaction
Team representatives said the athletes appreciated the invite but would not participate due to logistical conflicts. The refusal underscored tensions between athletes and political overtures amid broader scrutiny of comments made by senior officials.
Gold Medal Drama: Keller's Overtime Winner
The American women secured a 2-1 gold-medal victory over Canada thanks to an overtime winner by Megan Keller. It marked the program’s first Olympic gold in the sport since 2018 and capped an emotional tournament for the squad.
Player Response
Players and coaching staff celebrated the momentous victory, emphasizing the team’s resilience and long-term commitment over a four-year cycle. Emotions ran high after Keller’s decisive strike and the team’s historic achievement.
Political Tension at the Games
The Milano Cortina Olympics featured visible political friction, including boos directed at visiting officials at ceremonies and public debate around U.S. controversies. The hockey episode added to a series of off-ice storylines that followed Team USA through the Games.
Betting Implications and Market Reaction
Momentum from an Olympic gold typically boosts Team USA’s standing in futures and tournament markets, making them more attractive to bettors in upcoming world championships and Olympic qualifiers.
However, political controversy can influence public sentiment-driven markets, potentially shifting lines or encouraging price adjustments by bookmakers responding to public-money flows.
Top 10 medal count by country at Milan Cortina Winter Olympics
Punters should watch futures odds and public betting percentages rather than overreacting to off-ice developments.
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