Trump declares Wayne Gretzky ‘free agent’ after NHL legend supports Canada ‘remaining a separate country’

A Tale of Hockey, Politics, and Friendship: Trump and Gretzky’s Unique Bond

In a bizarre and lighthearted exchange, former U.S. President Donald Trump recently referred to Wayne Gretzky, the legendary NHL player, as a "free agent," just days after jokingly suggesting Gretzky could become the "governor of Canada" if the country were to become the 51st state. The comments came amid a backdrop of political humor and camaraderie between Trump and Gretzky, who have developed a close friendship in recent years. Trump’s remarks were made on his social media platform, Truth Social, where he shared his thoughts on Gretzky’s stance on Canada’s potential future as part of the United States. While the conversation was clearly playful, it highlights the intersection of sports and politics, as well as the unique dynamic between two larger-than-life figures.

The Political Backdrop: Trump’s Vision for a United North America

Trump’s suggestion that Canada could become the 51st state is not entirely new, but it took on a fresh twist when he involved Wayne Gretzky in the hypothetical scenario. Earlier this year, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his intention to step down, which seemed to inspire Trump to float the idea of Gretzky leading Canada as its "governor" under U.S. jurisdiction. In his Truth Social post, Trump revealed that while Gretzky is “low key” about keeping Canada as a separate nation, he believes the hockey legend would have been open to the idea of statehood. Trump also praised Gretzky’s potential as a political leader, stating that he could win any political office in Canada if he chose to run.

Trump’s vision for a unified North America, with Canada as part of the United States, is painted as a utopian scenario in his post. He listed several benefits, including lower taxes, a free and powerful military, no tariffs, and a booming economy, all under the umbrella of the "Greatest and Most Powerful Country in the World." However, he also acknowledged Gretzky’s love for Canada and his desire to see the country thrive as it is. This mix of admiration for Canada and a push for closer integration with the U.S. reflects Trump’s broader political philosophy, which often emphasizes American exceptionalism while advocating for stronger alliances with neighboring countries.

Gretzky’s Response: A Patriot with a Heart for Canada

Despite Trump’s playful suggestions, Wayne Gretzky has remained steadfast in his support for Canada. In a recent conversation with reporters at Mar-a-Lago, Trump revealed that Gretzky was “not too interested” in the idea of becoming Canada’s governor but might have been open to the concept of statehood. However, Gretzky’s loyalty to Canada is undeniable. As a national icon, he has long been celebrated as “The Great One,” not just for his unparalleled achievements on the ice but also for his dedication to Canadian pride.

Gretzky’s commitment to Canada was evident during the 4 Nations Face-Off, where he served as the honorary captain for the Canadian team in their final match against the United States. The tournament was marred by political tensions, as fans from both sides booed each other’s national anthems, reflecting the strained relations between the two nations. Despite this, Gretzky’s presence helped unite Canadians and showcased his ability to transcend the sport and inspire national pride. His involvement in the tournament underscored his deep-rooted love for Canada, even as he maintains a close friendship with Trump.

A Friendship That Crosses Borders and Sports

The relationship between Trump and Gretzky is a fascinating blend of mutual admiration and shared values. Trump has frequently praised Gretzky, calling him a “fantastic guy” and a “great Canadian,” while Gretzky has shown support for Trump, attending events such as a victory party for Trump’s 2024 election win and even donning a MAGA hat. While their friendship has raised eyebrows, it also highlights the power of personal connections in bridging political and cultural divides.

Gretzky’s involvement in Trump’s political events has not gone unnoticed. His presence at the victory party and inauguration, as well as his attendance at Mar-a-Lago, has sparked discussions about the intersection of sports and politics. While some have criticized Gretzky for aligning himself with a polarizing figure like Trump, others have praised him for staying true to his values and maintaining a friendship that transcends borders and ideologies.

The Cultural Significance of a Hockey Legend’s Political Foray

Wayne Gretzky’s foray into the world of politics, even if hypothetical, carries significant cultural weight. As one of the most beloved figures in Canadian sports history, Gretzky’s influence extends far beyond the hockey rink. His involvement in any political discussion automatically draws attention, as seen in the media coverage of Trump’s recent remarks.

What makes Gretzky’s potential political appeal so compelling is his universal likability and the trust he has earned from Canadians and Americans alike. His down-to-earth personality, coupled with his incredible achievements, makes him a relatable figure who could potentially unite people across political divides. While Gretzky has not expressed any interest in pursuing a career in politics, his ability to inspire and bring people together is a testament to the enduring power of sports in shaping cultural identity.

The Reactions: Booing Anthems and the Tensions Between Neighbors

The political tensions between the U.S. and Canada were on full display during the 4 Nations Face-Off, where fans from both countries booed each other’s national anthems. This unusual behavior reflects the broader strained relations between the two nations, which have been exacerbated by political differences in recent years. While sports have long been a unifying force, this incident highlights how even the most cherished events can become battlegrounds for political expression.

Wayne Gretzky’s role in the tournament, however, served as a reminder of the power of sports to transcend political divides. Despite the booing of anthems, Gretzky’s presence helped maintain a sense of unity and pride among Canadian fans. His involvement in the event underscored his commitment to representing Canada on the world stage, even in the face of political adversity.

As the story of Trump and Gretzky continues to unfold, it serves as a fascinating case study of how sports and politics can intersect in unexpected ways. While the idea of Gretzky becoming the governor of Canada or leading the country into statehood remains a playful fantasy, it highlights the enduring appeal of two figures who have captured the hearts of millions on both sides of the border. Whether Gretzky ever pursues a role in politics remains to be seen, but his legacy as a unifying force in sports and culture is already cemented.