During a celebratory phone call with the U.S. men’s hockey team after their victory over Canada, President Donald Trump made a joke about the women’s hockey team, suggesting he would be 'impeached' if he didn’t invite them to the State of the Union. The quip received a mixed response, including laughter from the men's team, but has sparked backlash from some commentators, particularly Sally Jenkins, a staff writer at The Atlantic. Jenkins expressed her frustration via social media, indicating that such jokes trivialize the accomplishments of the women’s team, who had also won gold in their category.

Trump's call came at a high-profile moment, as the men's team was celebrated for their achievements, yet his comments regarding their female counterparts seemed to overshadow the recognition of their efforts. Jenkins’ criticism points to a broader concern about gender equality in sports and the continued need for recognition of female athletes in traditionally male-dominated arenas. This situation reflects ongoing discussions about how women’s sports are perceived in comparison to men’s, especially in light of the increasing visibility and success of women athletes.

The women's hockey team ultimately declined Trump’s invitation to the State of the Union, which adds another layer to the controversy, highlighting their displeasure with the tokenistic aspects of his comments. As public figures and media continue to dissect the implications of such remarks, it underscores the relevance of proper acknowledgment and respect for women's achievements in sports, especially in events where gender issues remain highly topical and sensitive. This incident could further fuel discussions about how to better elevate and support female athletes in future sporting events and media coverage.