Wayne Gretzky Stands Firm Amid Trump-Related Backlash: ‘I’m Canadian’

Wayne Gretzky, renowned hockey legend, recently addressed concerns regarding his Canadian identity amid backlash related to his ties with former U.S. President Donald Trump. During a podcast interview, Gretzky clarified that his allegiance remains with Canada, emphasizing his status as a proud Canadian citizen.

Wayne Gretzky’s Response to Political Backlash

In a discussion on the “100% Hockey With Millard & Shannon” podcast, Gretzky, aged 64, was prompted to respond to criticism for not vocally defending Canada amid comments made by Trump regarding the nation being seen as the 51st state. Gretzky stated, “I never became an American citizen. I’m Canadian,” highlighting the identity he holds dear.

He further explained how many Canadians move to the U.S. for various reasons, with a significant number opting for U.S. citizenship. However, he reaffirmed his commitment to his Canadian heritage, saying, “I can’t vote in the U.S. because I live in the U.S. and I’m Canadian.”

Public and Political Reactions

• Gretzky faced notable criticism for supporting Trump, including attending significant political events.
• He acknowledged that while Canadians may want him to engage in political discourse, he prefers to remain apolitical.
• During the podcast, he recalled sharing a conversation with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about integrating Canada’s identity with the U.S., describing it humorously as making the U.S. the “12th province.”

In February 2025, Gretzky experienced a public backlash after an appearance at the Four Nations Face-Off. His neutral stance during the event, including a thumbs-up to U.S. players while being honored as the honorary Canadian team captain, led to a mixed reception from Canadian fans.

Support from Trudeau and Trump

Despite the criticism, Gretzky received support from both Trudeau and Trump. He mentioned a comforting phone call from Trudeau who reassured him during this challenging time. “It was a wonderful phone call… I needed it right now,” Gretzky said about Trudeau’s outreach.

Trump, expressing his support, shared his concerns over the backlash against Gretzky, stating on Truth Social that Gretzky is a valued friend and should not be criticized for his American connections. The former president has previously suggested that Gretzky could take on significant political roles in Canada, including being referred to as a potential governor.

In light of the ongoing discussions, Gretzky remains steadfast in his identity as a Canadian. “I know in my heart I’m Canadian, stayed Canadian and Canadian citizen for life,” he affirmed during the podcast.

As debates continue about national identity and political engagement, Wayne Gretzky stands firm. His remarks echo a broader sentiment among many Canadians about pride in their country, underscoring his commitment to being a representative figure for Canada in the realm of sports and beyond.