“Pretend that you don’t know me”: Wayne Gretzky took cross fires while Donald Trump’s friendship is stretching Canadian backlash | NHL news
Wayne Gretzkylong celebrated as CanadaThe largest hockey icon is now faced with an unknown role – not on ice, but in the center of a political storm. The backlash against “the big one” has intensified in recent weeks while Canadians have tackled their increasingly visible friendship with US President Donald Trump.
The bonds of Donald Trump of Wayne Gretzky sparkle anger for a politically sensitive moment
The controversy broke out following the recent interview with Donald Trump with the Atlantic, where he tackled the situation of Wayne Gretzky. “I love Canada,” said Trump, before revealing a private conversation with the hockey legend. “I said to Wayne:” I’m going to give you a pass, Wayne … just like you don’t know me. The remark, supposed to make Gretzky complete, only fueled the perception that the former NHL star is too close to a deeply unpopular figure in Canada.
The moment of this revelation could not be more explosive. Canadian political tensions with the United States are already at a boiling point. Donald Trump’s past statements suggest that Canada could become the 51st US state, associated with climbing commercial wars and inflammatory rhetoric, have grown with nerves through the border. According to a Politico / Focaldata survey, 75% of Canadians have an unfavorable vision of President Trump.
Recent actions of hockey legend raise eyebrows north of the border
Wayne Gretzky’s decision to give American players a boost and jump with Canadian colors in the 4 nations final in February did not go unnoticed. Critics considered the gesture as an antipatriotic, especially after the images surfaced from Gretzky putting on a Maga hat during the celebration of the Trump elections in 2024 in Mar-A-Lago. His participation in the inauguration of Trump alongside his wife has further fueled the flames.
Although Gretzky has not yet commented publicly, the Canadian feeling has moved strongly. Formerly untouchable, it is now the subject of a meticulous examination of social media and a national debate.
In his victory speech after a surprising return of the Liberal Party, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney directly addressed Trump’s growing influence. “President Trump is trying to break us so that America can own us. This will never happen,” said Carney with challenge.
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Whether Wayne Gretzky speaks or remains silent, damage can already be caused – for her reputation, and perhaps for the perception of Canada of one of his most loved sons.
