President Donald Trump hosted over 120 Team USA Winter Olympians and Paralympians at the White House. The event celebrated their achievements during the Milano Cortina Games earlier this year. The athletes brought home a total of 57 medals for the United States, including 12 gold medals.

Trump highlighted the historical significance of their success. The U.S. secured the highest number of gold medals ever in a single Winter Games. They also achieved the most medals (33) outside North America.

Trump’s reception for the athletes was held in the East Room of the White House on August 6, 2026. (Getty Images)

Paralympians also played a key role, earning 24 medals, including 13 golds. Especially notable was their fifth consecutive win in sled hockey, marking an impressive sporting dynasty. Trump praised their achievements, calling them unprecedented.

Paralympians bring home their fifth straight gold medal in sled hockey. It’s amazing what you’ve done. Nobody’s ever done anything like it, Trump commented, recognizing the team members.

Trump also discussed the victorious Olympic hockey teams, both men’s and women’s, who defeated Canada in overtime. He acknowledged their remarkable performance during his speech, noting the historical significance of the women’s team’s victory.

During the event, multiple Paralympic medalist Laurie Stephens and bobsledder Frank Del Duca presented Trump with a pair of shoes and a Team USA jacket as tokens from Team USA. Laurie Stephens and Frank Del Duca gift President Trump on behalf of Team USA. (AFP)

Previously, Trump had invited the men’s hockey team to his State of the Union address. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck received the Presidential Medal of Freedom at that event.

Earlier, Trump received criticism for a joking remark about his potential impeachment if he failed to invite the women’s team to the White House. Despite tight schedules, Olympians Joy Dunne and Abbey Murphy were present for the celebration.

Congratulating each athlete, Trump received a varsity jacket and shoes from Team USA, signifying their overall outstanding performance.

Joy Dunne and Abbey Murphy among Olympians at the White House gathering. (Amber Searls/Imagn Images)

Some athletes were absent due to training for the 2030 Olympic and Paralympic Games in the French Alps. Trump expressed anticipation for the 2034 Winter Games set to take place in Salt Lake City.