Team Canada kicked off the 4 Nations Face-Off with an overtime win over Sweden. The game was thrilling, the atmosphere in the arena electric, and the one and only Mario Lemieux took the ice, sending the crowd into a frenzy. But while fans celebrated, many took the opportunity to criticize Wayne Gretzky over one particular detail.
Wednesday’s game was a true homecoming for Lemieux, a Montreal native, who took part in the pre-game ceremony ahead of the tournament opener. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in hockey history, Lemieux rarely makes public appearances like this, and the crowd made sure to show him the appreciation he deserved.
The standing ovation lasted for minutes, with chants of “Mario! Mario!” echoing throughout the arena. Lemieux waved to the crowd before calling Sidney Crosby over to share a moment on the ice. But another Canadian hockey legend, Wayne Gretzky, didn’t receive the same love.
Wayne Gretzky’s friendship with Trump
Nicknamed The Great One and widely recognized as the greatest player in hockey history, Gretzky was noticeably absent from the ceremony. Instead, he was part of the NHL on TNT panel. But during the broadcast, he found himself under fire from Canadian fans for one specific reason.
Tensions between Canada and the U.S. have been rising ever since former President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods. In response, some Canadian hockey fans have taken to loudly booing the American national anthem at games. However, during TNT’s broadcast, Gretzky remained silent on the controversy.
Gretzky slammed by fans
Adding fuel to the fire, many fans pointed out that Gretzky attended Trump’s election party in November. His perceived lack of support for Canada led to backlash online.
“I would rather see Wayne Gretzky stand up for Canada when his friend Trump talks about taking our country over. And I’m a lifelong Oilers fan. Never been so disappointed with the ‘Great’ One. He has forgotten his Brantford roots,” one person wrote on social media.
“I don’t think Gretzky should comment on anything about Canada or national pride. Too busy hanging out with Trump. His wife wants him to be the governor of the 51st state. Sellout,” another added.
Meanwhile, many fans felt Lemieux was the perfect representative for Canada.
“Trump supporter Wayne Gretzky would be booed off the ice, so Mario Lemieux was the perfect luminary to represent Canada at 4 Nations,” one fan wrote.
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