Wayne Gretzky has been under fire from Canadians over his close ties to Donald Trump. But during Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Finals, he did something that’s sure to seriously irritate the President.
Gretzky is widely considered the greatest hockey player of all time, but in recent years, his status as Canada’s No. 1 hero has been questioned due to his close friendship with Trump. Tensions escalated during the 4 Nations Face-Off earlier this year, after Trump made controversial remarks suggesting he wanted Canada to become the United States’ 51st state—mockingly referring to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a “governor.”
Many expected Gretzky to speak out, especially given that Canadian fans consistently booed the American national anthem both during the tournament and at other sporting events. Gretzky also drew criticism for not wearing a Team Canada jersey during a pre-game ceremony in which he also stepped out on the ice from the U.S’ bench, which many fans saw as a slight.
Wayne Gretzky met with Swift
Some argue that politics and sports shouldn’t mix, but Gretzky’s attendance at Trump’s inauguration at the U.S. Capitol earlier this year reignited the debate. With relations between Canada and the U.S. strained under Trump’s leadership, a growing number of Canadians have turned against their former hero. But during Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Finals, Gretzky may have sent an unexpected message.
At the high-stakes game in Florida on Thursday—where the Panthers were looking to take a 3–1 series lead—pop superstar Taylor Swift made a surprise appearance with her boyfriend, NFL star Travis Kelce. During the third period, Swift was seen watching the game alongside Wayne Gretzky.
Will leave Trump ”unhappy”
Taylor Swift publicly endorsed Kamala Harris for president last year, and not long after, Trump lashed out on Truth Social, writing, “I HATE TAYLOR SWIFT.” Earlier this spring, he followed up with another jab: “Has anyone noticed that, since I said ‘I HATE TAYLOR SWIFT,’ she’s no longer ‘HOT’?”
On social media, some Swifties expressed disappointment over Swift spending time with a “Trump ally.” At the same time, others noted that Gretzky’s association with Swift might not sit well with Trump.
“Trump will not be happy to see his friend Gretzky with Taylor Swift,” one user said, per the Daily Mail.
✨ In their #StanleyCup Final era ✨
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce knew all too well they couldn't miss Game 4 in Sunrise 🙌 pic.twitter.com/nNfNH2TEVj
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 13, 2025
