President Donald Trump welcomed over 120 members of Team USA's Winter Olympic and Paralympic squads to the White House, commemorating their remarkable accomplishments from recent winter games. The celebratory event highlighted the athletes' dedication and the nation's pride in their record-setting performances.
Historic Medal Haul for Team USA Olympians
The United States saw its 300 Olympic athletes secure a total of 57 medals, including an impressive 12 gold medals. This tally marked a historic achievement, as the U.S. Olympians garnered the most gold medals ever in a single Winter Games year. Additionally, the team's 33 total medals earned outside of North America represented the highest count for Team USA in that category.
Paralympic Excellence and Sled Hockey Dominance
The 72 American Paralympians also contributed significantly to the nation's medal count, bringing home 24 additional medals, 13 of which were gold. A standout performance came from the sled hockey team, which secured its fifth consecutive gold medal, cementing a dynasty in international sports. President Trump lauded their unparalleled success.
"Paralympians bring home their fifth straight gold medal in sled hockey, extending one of the greatest dynasties in all of international sports and it’s amazing what you’ve done. Nobody’s ever done anything like it," Trump stated, acknowledging members of the victorious team.
Hockey Triumphs and Presidential Recognition
The President also recognized the achievements of both the men's and women's Olympic hockey teams, who each defeated Canada in overtime matchups. He specifically commended their performances.
"The 2026 men’s Olympic hockey team. We celebrated together and it was really an incredible time. The women’s team and the men’s team — it was just incredible," Trump remarked. "We can’t forget and never would — and nobody would have the courage to forget either because they are amazing. The history-making women’s hockey team. This team left everything on the ice."
Earlier, Trump had invited members of the men's Olympic hockey team to his State of the Union address shortly after their gold medal win, where goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom on the same day.
Following their overtime victory, President Trump had made a jest during a call with the men's team, implying he would face
