The U.S. women’s ice hockey team, which won gold at the Milan/Cortina Winter Olympics last week, has declined an invitation from President Donald Trump to attend the State of the Union address, U.S. media reported on Monday.
“We sincerely appreciate the invitation extended to our gold medal-winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team and are deeply grateful for the recognition of their extraordinary achievements,” local media quoted a USA Hockey spokesperson as saying in a statement.
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“Due to post-Olympic schedules and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments, athletes are unable to participate.”
The spokesman added: “They are honored to be involved and would like to thank everyone for the recognition.”
The White House initially did not respond formally.
The United States won its third gold medal in women’s ice hockey on Thursday, beating favorite Canada 2-1 in overtime in Italy.
After Sunday’s win over Canada, Trump invited the gold medal-winning U.S. men’s team to attend his State of the Union address scheduled for Tuesday in Washington.
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After the gold medal game, Trump congratulated the players and briefly mentioned the women’s team during a video call with the men’s team in the locker room.
“I have to tell you, we’re going to have to bring the women’s team. You do know that,” Trump said, prompting laughter from the locker room. “I do believe I could be impeached,” the president jokingly added.
