As tradition dictates, the Stanley Cup–winning team visits the White House to meet the President. Yesterday, the Florida Panthers made their second consecutive visit. However, fans are now calling out Matthew Tkachuk for comments he made to President Donald Trump.
The Florida Panthers won their second Stanley Cup in June, and although they currently sit outside a playoff spot, they are still considered contenders to win a third straight title. Since 1991, it has been tradition for the Stanley Cup champions to visit the White House. On Monday night, the Panthers visited President Donald Trump for the second year in a row.
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Compared Stanley Cup to meeting Trump
While the visit itself went as planned, Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk has since faced criticism for remarks he made during the event.
“The two Cups were pretty good, but that walk with you might have trumped it all. Nothing beats this. I’m so proud to be an American, and so proud to be here with you,” Tkachuk said, according to NHL.com.
Matthew Tkachuk under fire
Fans were quick to react negatively to Tkachuk’s comments on social media.
“Proud of what exactly? He’s talking about a twice-impeached convicted felon. What the f*ck is happening down there?” one fan wrote on X.
“I love my Florida Panthers, but being proud to be an American? In these times? Under this regime?” another wrote.
“F*cking embarrassing,” a third fan commented.
A video of the moment can be seen below.
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