Gretzky Breaks Silence: Trump, Canada, and Hockey's Future

Wayne Gretzky BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.

In the past few days Wayne Gretzky’s name has lit up both headlines and social media, most notably as he finally broke his silence over the controversy surrounding his friendship with former US President Donald Trump and the so-called 51st state remarks, according to Hockey Feed and also covered in a high-profile episode of the 100 Percent Hockey podcast. After months of strong backlash from Canadian fans who felt Gretzky should have defended Canada when Trump joked that Canada should become the 51st state and suggested Gretzky as its notional governor, the Great One laid out his position with characteristic composure. He insisted his heart remains Canadian, emphasizing he never sought American citizenship and stating plainly that he’s not into politics—simply a hockey player, as reported by CTV News and the Ottawa Citizen. Gretzky described how even former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called to offer support, giving what Trudeau jokingly dubbed a “hug call,” which the hockey legend admitted he appreciated during this fraught moment.

The incident took on biographical weight as Gretzky was booed at the Four Nations Face-Off when he served as honorary captain for Team Canada, facing criticism on social media for not wearing a Team Canada jersey and for his silence on Trump. His explanation—he can’t vote in either country, doesn’t control what politicians say, and ultimately just wants to be left out of politics—has been picked apart, with some public skepticism about his assertions regarding citizenship status, as several sources point out he holds dual citizenship, though he continues to identify first and foremost as Canadian. ABC World News Tonight and Times of India both ran with versions of the story, further cementing it as a defining moment of the week.

Elsewhere, Gretzky made news for delivering blunt commentary on Connor McDavid’s record-shattering twenty five million dollar deal with the Oilers, saying this contract could permanently reshape the Oilers’ future and set new precedents across the league. His high-profile remarks on business and sports management generated chatter in both North American and international sports circles, especially as reported by Times of India.

No recent appearances at charity or business events were recorded for the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, and there’s no evidence of major new business ventures or endorsements in recent days. Social media, however, has not quieted—his lack of public engagement with the Team Canada jersey issue, combined with the Trump saga, became flashpoints on both X and Instagram, trending for several days and drawing a wide spectrum of commentary from diehard fans to political pundits.

No speculation or unverified reports on other personal or business matters emerged in credible outlets. This week’s headlines—Wayne Gretzky addresses anti-Canadian criticism, and Wayne Gretzky breaks silence on Trump friendship—will almost certainly become lasting chapters in the public and biographical view of one of Canada’s most iconic athletes.

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