WASHINGTON – In a moment that blended sports and politics, former President Donald Trump accepted an Olympic gold medal from U.S. Hockey star Matthew Tkachuk at the White House on February 24, 2026, declaring, “I’m not giving it back.” The exchange occurred during a visit by the U.S. Men’s hockey team, celebrating their recent victory at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. This unusual gesture, and Trump’s subsequent comment, quickly circulated online, sparking conversation about the intersection of athletics and the former president’s continued presence in the public sphere.
The U.S. Men’s hockey team secured their third Olympic gold medal, defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime at the Milan-Cortina Games. According to reports, the team was invited to the White House to commemorate their achievement. During the visit, Tkachuk, a forward for the Florida Panthers, playfully asked Trump if he would like to wear the medal. Trump’s enthusiastic response – “Yes, definitely. I’m not giving it back” – was captured on video and shared widely on social media.
Trump putting on the Gold Medal: “I’m not giving it back. I never thought I’d have this on.” https://t.co/uVsimHrIjd
— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) February 24, 2026
A Playful Exchange with a Political Backdrop
The moment unfolded during a photo opportunity with the team. Tkachuk reportedly offered to trade the medal for a pen, a lighthearted exchange that preceded Trump’s declaration. Jauns.lv reported that Trump later remarked it was “cool” to wear the medal, adding, “I never thought I’d have the opportunity to put this on.” The incident occurred as the team prepares to attend President Trump’s annual address to Congress.
This isn’t the first time Tkachuk has been in the spotlight. In June 2025, he and teammates Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart were revealed to have played through significant injuries during the Stanley Cup playoffs, leading the Florida Panthers to their first championship title. Apollo.lv detailed the extent of their injuries, with Tkachuk playing with a leg fracture and a torn muscle.
Team USA’s Pride and the 4 Nations Face-Off
The U.S. Hockey team’s recent success extends beyond the Olympics. Matthew Tkachuk has as well spoken about the strong sense of national pride within the team, particularly during the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. According to Fox News, Tkachuk noted that the team wanted to demonstrate their unity and pride in being Americans, something he felt hadn’t been as visible in recent years. He highlighted the team’s response to being booed during the playing of the U.S. National anthem, framing it as a moment of defiance and national solidarity.
The incident with the anthem occurred amidst a backdrop of political tension, stemming from former President Trump’s past threats of tariffs against Canada and even suggestions that Canada could become the “51st state.” This context added another layer to the team’s display of patriotism and their determination to create a statement on the ice.
Looking Ahead
The U.S. Men’s hockey team’s visit to the White House and the exchange with former President Trump represent a unique intersection of sports and politics. As the team prepares to address Congress, the moment serves as a reminder of the power of athletic achievement to transcend political divides, even if momentarily. The team’s continued success and their commitment to representing the United States on the world stage will undoubtedly remain a source of national pride. Further updates regarding the team’s activities and appearances can be found on the official USA Hockey website.
What do you think about this moment? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with your friends and family.
Related reading
