Wayne Gretzky and Donald Trump Tee Off Amid Controversy

Wayne Gretzky, the legendary NHL player, recently joined U.S. President Donald Trump for a round of golf, despite facing criticism from many Canadians for his associations with the former president. The golf outing took place over the U.S. Thanksgiving weekend, during which Gretzky shared the course with Trump, American golfer Brooks Koepka, and Fox News host Bret Baier.

Trump posted several photos and videos from the day, showcasing the group enjoying their time on the greens. The former president, wearing his signature red “Make America Great Again” hat, has previously expressed admiration for Gretzky, highlighting their friendship in various public statements.

In recent years, Gretzky has faced scrutiny regarding his loyalty to Canada, particularly due to his connections with Trump. The former president has made controversial comments about Canada, including joking about making it the 51st U.S. state. Despite the backlash, Gretzky maintains that he does not wish to engage in political matters and remains devoted to his Canadian roots.

Controversies Surrounding Gretzky’s Public Appearances

The four-time Stanley Cup champion’s public presence has stirred discontent among some Canadians. For instance, during the 4 Nations championship game between Canada and the United States earlier this year, Gretzky opted to enter through the American entrance and did not wear a Canadian jersey during the ceremonial face-off. This decision drew criticism, prompting Gretzky to address the issue on a podcast earlier this month.

Gretzky’s relationship with Trump is not new. The two have been seen together on multiple occasions, including at Trump’s presidential victory party last year and at his inauguration. Trump has even suggested in social media posts that Gretzky could make a suitable candidate for Canadian Prime Minister.

Despite the controversies, golf has always been a significant part of Gretzky’s life. He has been passionate about the sport for years, and his family ties further connect him to the golfing world. His daughter, Paulina Gretzky, is married to American professional golfer Dustin Johnson.

As the public continues to react to his associations and choices, it remains to be seen how many further outings Gretzky will share with the sitting U.S. president. The dynamics of their friendship and its impact on his image in Canada will likely continue to be a topic of discussion among fans and critics alike.