President Trump Celebrates Team USA’s Success at 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Games

President Donald Trump hosted over 120 Team USA Winter Olympians and Paralympians at the White House, celebrating their achievements at the Milano Cortina Games. Among 300 athletes representing the United States, 57 medals, including 12 golds, were earned.

Trump highlighted the historic aspect of the games for Team USA. They secured the highest number of U.S. gold medals in a single year at a Winter Olympics and won the most medals, totaling 33, outside North America.

In addition to Olympic achievements, Trump’s event acknowledged the accomplishments of Paralympians. After 72 athletes competed in five sports, 24 medals, including 13 golds, were won. A notable victory was the fifth consecutive gold medal in sled hockey. Trump praised the team’s dynasty as unparalleled in international sports.

The event also celebrated the success of the men’s and women’s Olympic hockey teams, both achieving victory over Canada in overtime. Trump described their performance as remarkable and memorable.

During the reception, Laurie Stephens, a multiple Paralympic medalist, and Frank Del Duca, a two-time Olympian, presented Trump with a pair of shoes and a Team USA jacket. This gesture commemorated Team USA’s exceptional representation of the nation.

The President previously invited the men’s hockey team to attend his State of the Union address after their gold medal success, where goaltender Connor Hellebuyck received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Despite scheduling conflicts, some members couldn’t join the White House event. However, forwards Joy Dunne and Abbey Murphy attended, receiving recognition from Trump.

Trump mentioned upcoming events and expressed anticipation for Salt Lake City’s hosting of the Winter Games in 2034. While some athletes couldn’t attend due to training for the 2030 Games in the French Alps, the President’s acknowledgment recognized the dedication and achievements of Team USA’s athletes.