The US hockey teams achieved remarkable success at the Milan Cortina games, but following this triumph, tensions arose over the valuation of women's hockey. After the US men's team clinched victory in the finals against Canada, President Trump called them in the locker room to offer congratulations and an invitation to the White House. During this call, Trump joked that he would likely have to invite the US women's team as well, or risk being removed from office. This comment sparked outrage in America, as many viewed it as an unjust superiority over women's hockey and women's sports in general.

The situation was exacerbated when the US team laughed at Trump's comment, leading to criticism aimed at the players themselves. Backup goaltender Jeremy Swayman later agreed that their reaction was perhaps inappropriate, indicating that they should have responded differently. This serves as a reflection of the ongoing struggles for recognition and respect within women's sports, which are often overshadowed by their male counterparts despite achieving equal or even greater levels of success.

Overall, this incident not only highlights the achievements of the US teams but also underscores the need for more equitable treatment and recognition of women in sports. The uproar following the President's comments reveals deeper societal attitudes towards women's sports, suggesting that more constructive dialogue is necessary to foster respect and equality.