President Trump Honors Team USA Winter Olympians and Paralympians

President Donald Trump hosted over 120 Winter Olympians and Paralympians from Team USA at the White House, celebrating their achievements in the Milano Cortina Games earlier this year. The U.S. athletes brought back 57 medals, including 12 gold. It marked a historic performance, securing the highest number of golds ever for the U.S. in a single Winter Games and the most medals earned in a Winter Olympics outside North America.

“Paralympians have continued their dominance with a fifth straight gold in sled hockey,” Trump remarked, acknowledging the team’s impressive streak. “It is unparalleled in international sports,” he said.

Trump also highlighted the achievements of the U.S. men’s and women’s Olympic hockey teams, both of which defeated Canada in overtime. “We experienced incredible moments together,” Trump stated. He paid special tribute to the women’s team for their impressive performance.

Laurie Stephens, a multiple Paralympic medalist in alpine monoskiing, and Frank Del Duca, a two-time Olympian and bobsledder, presented Trump with a Team USA jacket and a pair of shoes during the event, recognizing the athletes’ extraordinary efforts.

After the victory in men’s hockey, Trump invited its members to his State of the Union address, where goaltender Connor Hellebuyck received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Trump quipped about potential impeachment if he failed to invite the women’s team, a comment met with some backlash. Despite scheduling conflicts, forwards Joy Dunne and Abbey Murphy joined Trump at the event.

Trump concluded by congratulating all Team USA members, while mentioning the upcoming 2030 Games in the French Alps and the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, which he expressed enthusiasm for.