President Donald Trump will present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to US men’s hockey goalkeeper Connor Hellebuyck, honoring the team’s Olympic gold.

PRESIDENT Donald Trump announced he will award the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, to US men’s ice hockey goalkeeper Connor Hellebuyck.

The announcement came as Trump honored the gold medal-winning team during his State of the Union address to Congress.

“Here with us is a group of winners,” Trump said as the players entered wearing their gold medals. He stated that great athletes have received the award before and that Hellebuyck deserved it.

Hellebuyck was instrumental in the men’s 2-1 gold medal victory over Canada, making 41 saves including a spectacular behind-the-back stop. The US men’s team secured its first ice hockey gold in 46 years last Sunday.

The celebration contrasted with the absence of the US women’s team, which also won gold at the Winter Olympics. USA Hockey stated the women’s players were “unable to participate” in the address due to prior commitments.

“We are sincerely grateful for the invitation,” read a statement on behalf of the women’s team, citing “previously scheduled academic and professional commitments.” Trump noted in his speech that the women’s team “will soon be coming to the White House.”

In a video call after the men’s victory, Trump joked about the necessity of inviting both teams. “We’re gonna have to bring the women’s team, you do know that?” he said, adding, “I do believe I would probably be impeached” if he didn’t.

Approximately 20 members of the men’s team visited the White House ahead of the speech. At least five men’s players also did not attend, with reports indicating they returned to their NHL teams for training.

 The Sun Malaysia