Matthew Tkachuk and Team USA have returned to the United States following their Olympic victory. Upon landing, Tkachuk spoke to reporters about receiving a congratulatory phone call from Donald Trump — comments that have since sparked controversy online.
After Jack Hughes scored the game-winning overtime goal against Canada, Team USA celebrated their gold-medal win in the locker room. During the celebration, they received a call from President Trump, who congratulated them and jokingly mentioned he also needed to invite the U.S. women’s team — who had also won gold — to the White House.
READ MORE: Matthew Tkachuk’s first words after winning Olympic gold
Matthew Tkachuk praised Donald Trump
Following the tournament, the team returned home and was later seen celebrating in Miami at the E11even nightclub. At the airport, several players spoke to the media, including Tkachuk, who was asked about the call with the president.
“It was an honor hearing from the President of the United States, hearing he was supporting us… We’re honored to represent him and the hundreds of millions across the country and bring the gold medal back,” Tkachuk told reporters.
Fans are not happy
However, fans online are now criticizing Tkachuk for his praise of Trump.
“One thousand times more respect for athletes who don’t blindly follow Trump,” one fan wrote on X.
“And this is why Matthew Tkachuk is not someone you should support,” another said.
“Of course the most hated player in the NHL loves the most hated president in history,” a third commented.
“Imagine feeling ‘honored’ by a president’s support while ignoring how much he divides the country,” a fourth added.
You can watch the interview below.
READ MORE: Team USA under fire after Donald Trump phone call
