Olympic gold medalist Abbey Murphy defends men’s hockey team amid criticism

Olympic gold medalist and University of Minnesota hockey star Abbey Murphy dismissed narratives that the men’s Olympic hockey team disrespected them by mocking President Donald Trump’s speech after their win over Canada on Sunday, saying the two teams respect each other.

Talking about some of his fondest memories at Milan Cortina, Murphy during an appearance on Barstool’s “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast said his favorite memory was the night of the men’s gold medal game when the two teams met in the dining hall.

“The first two guys we saw were Brady Tkachuk, Connor Hellebuyck and Charlie McAvoy. Charlie McAvoy had glasses on his head, he had the biggest smile on his face and he accepted all the single girls. [with] the big old hugs, the hugs we all laughed about, the good memories. And he was very happy as we were with him. ”

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Murphy, who won the gold with his two goals and five assists throughout the tournament, said the two teams stayed together for 2.5 hours before the men’s team left at three in the morning.

“We were sitting around the table laughing and joking. Jack Eichel was leading the fun that followed. I was sitting next to Tage Thompson, who had a lot to share. He was a really funny guy. But, you know, it’s things like that that we’ll remember forever.

“Being there with them and experiencing all those things was one of the best moments I’ll remember,” he added. “Obviously, it’s a great honor to represent the country with them. So, I’m happy to make as many memories as possible.”

Team USA’s men’s hockey gold medalists have angered liberal pundits and media outlets despite captivating the nation with their Olympic success. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

Murphy went on to explain that despite the media storm that followed the men’s team after they were heard laughing in response to Trump saying he would have to invite the women’s team to the State of the Union speech, he thought it was sad that the players needed to apologize.

“We’ve never heard anything bad from them. It’s sad that they apologize for anything. It’s true.”

“They’re a special group of guys and we’re honored to have them on that journey and share with them. But we know how much they respect us and we respect them. It definitely goes both ways.”

The controversy surrounding the men’s group attending the State of the Union address and meeting with Trump in the Oval Office on Tuesday has led to many players facing questions about the incident when they return to the NHL.

American women’s hockey star Hillary Knight addressed the controversy on ESPN, calling the joke “offensive,” but defended the male players.

Kendall Coyne of the United States, left, and Hilary Knight of the United States celebrate after the women’s ice hockey victory ceremony at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, on Feb. 19, 2026. (Photo by Hassan Ammar/AP)

“I think there’s a real level of support and respect there,” she said. “I think that kind of overshadows the quick ending. I think the guys were in a tough spot, so I think it’s a shame that this story and narrative blew up and overshadowed that connection and genuine interest in each other and having fun.”

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The women’s hockey team declined an invitation to the State of the Union address, but USA Hockey said in a recent statement that the team will “soon” visit the White House to celebrate their gold medal success “based on their plans for the end of their seasons.”

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