U.S. Olympic gold medalist Abbey Murphy has spoken out regarding the controversy surrounding the men's Olympic hockey team's apology for a remark made after their victory over Canada. Murphy stated that the narrative of disrespect is inaccurate, highlighting the mutual respect between the men's and women's teams.
Murphy recounted a positive interaction with members of the men's team, including Brady Tkachuk, Connor Hellebuyck, and Charlie McAvoy, in the dining hall after their gold medal game. She described a warm welcome and shared laughter, emphasizing that the men were "super happy for us as we were for them." The two teams reportedly spent hours together, fostering camaraderie.
Murphy found it "sad" that the men's team felt the need to apologize for a comment made by President Donald Trump, which was followed by laughter from some players. She asserted that the women's team never felt disrespected and that the situation was "a special group of boys" who share a strong bond with the women's team.
Fellow U.S. women's hockey player Hillary Knight also addressed the situation, calling the comment "distasteful" but defending the men's players. Knight suggested that a "quick lapse" in judgment was being overshadowed by the narrative, emphasizing the genuine support and respect between the athletes.
The women's team declined an invitation to the State of the Union address, but USA Hockey confirmed they would visit the White House later in the season.