Charles Barkley takes aim at Canada after 4 Nations victory: ‘They didn’t want to be the 51st state’

Charles Barkley’s Birthday Wish and a Thrilling Hockey Showdown

The 4 Nations Face-Off final was more than just a game—it was a stage for national pride, political banter, and a dash of humor, thanks to NBA legend Charles Barkley. On Thursday, Team USA and Canada clashed in a nail-biting matchup that went into overtime, with Canada ultimately emerging victorious. While Barkley had hoped to celebrate his birthday with a Team USA win, the outcome didn’t dampen his spirits. Instead, he took the opportunity to congratulate Canada on their hard-fought victory during the broadcast of Inside the NBA on TNT. “Congratulations to Canada – I’m sorry we got the tariffs on you,” he quipped, adding, “It was a great hockey game.” His remarks not only lightened the mood but also showcased his trademark wit and ability to connect sports with real-world issues.

Barkley’s Tariff Joke Sparks Laughter and Buzz

Barkley’s co-hosts couldn’t help but laugh at his clever jab about tariffs, a topic that has been a point of contention between the U.S. and Canada in recent years. However, Barkley wasn’t done yet. He took the joke a step further, saying, “They were playing harder because of the tariffs, and they didn’t want to be the 51st state. That’s motivation.” The comment was a playful reference to President Donald Trump’s recent teasing of Canadian lawmakers, in which he humorously suggested that Canada could become the 51st state. Barkley’s remarks not only highlighted the competitive spirit of the game but also how sports often become a reflection of broader political and cultural tensions.

A Game Steeped in Political Tensions

The 4 Nations Face-Off final took place amid heightened political tensions between the U.S. and Canada, adding an extra layer of intensity to the matchup. President Trump had been vocal about imposing tariffs on Canada, a move that didn’t sit well with Canadian officials and citizens alike. Additionally, Trump playfully referred to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as the “governor” of Canada, a title that many interpreted as a lighthearted jab but one that still carried a hint of seriousness. The political undertones were further amplified when Canadian fans booed the American national anthem before two games in the tournament, a gesture that several Team USA players took personally. The atmosphere was charged, and the stakes felt higher than just a game.

Canada’s Triumphant Victory and a Message from Trudeau

In the end, it was Canada that emerged victorious, thanks to a thrilling overtime goal by Connor McDavid, who scored the winning goal in a 3-2 game. The victory wasn’t just about bragging rights; it was a moment of national pride for Canada. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wasted no time in celebrating the win, taking to X (formerly Twitter) to share a message that resonated with Canadians everywhere. “You can’t take our country—and you can’t take our game,” he wrote, a clear nod to the political undertones of the matchup. Trudeau’s message was a powerful reminder of the unity and resilience of the Canadian people, both on and off the ice.

The Intersection of Sports and Politics

The 4 Nations Face-Off final highlighted the unique way in which sports can intersect with politics, creating a dynamic that goes beyond the game itself. For fans, it was a thrilling matchup that showcased the skill and determination of both teams. For politicians, it was an opportunity to engage in a bit of friendly banter and national pride. And for commentators like Charles Barkley, it was a chance to use humor to bridge the gap between sports and politics, reminding everyone that even in competitive moments, there’s room for laughter and good-natured teasing. The game served as a reminder of the power of sports to unite and divide, often simultaneously.

A Lasting Legacy of Competition and Camaraderie

In the end, the 4 Nations Face-Off final was more than just a hockey game—it was a celebration of competition, camaraderie, and national pride. While Canada may have taken home the victory, both teams left the ice with their heads held high, knowing they had given it their all. And as for Charles Barkley, his birthday may not have ended with a Team USA win, but his witty remarks ensured that he remained the life of the party. As the dust settles on this thrilling matchup, one thing is clear: the rivalry between the U.S. and Canada is alive and well, both on and off the ice.