Why Donald Trump called Wayne Gretzky a “free agent” and why it stirred debate in Canada

In February 2025, Donald Trump referred to Wayne Gretzky as a “free agent” after the hockey legend attended his inauguration. This comment sparked controversy, unsettling Canadians who view Gretzky as a national icon and raising concerns about his carefully neutral public image being politicized. The incident underscored the delicate balance when sports heroes are drawn into political arenas.

Why Donald Trump called Wayne Gretzky a “free agent” and why it stirred debate in Canada
In February 2025, Donald Trump referred to Wayne Gretzky as a “free agent” after the hockey legend attended his inauguration. This comment sparked controversy, unsettling Canadians who view Gretzky as a national icon and raising concerns about his carefully neutral public image being politicized. The incident underscored the delicate balance when sports heroes are drawn into political arenas.