Wayne Gretzky Faces Backlash Amid Political Controversy

EDMONTON, Alberta — Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky is facing backlash from fans and critics after his support for U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked controversy in Canada. The criticism reached new heights following Gretzky’s attendance at the 4 Nations Face-Off final, where he appeared indifferent towards the Canadian team while showing enthusiasm for the American squad.

Gretzky, who has long been cherished in Canada for his contributions to hockey, was seen wearing a blue suit rather than a national jersey during the event, which many fans found disrespectful. Witnesses reported an unexpected reaction from the crowd, with boos erupting as Gretzky took the ice. Kelley Ware, a local pub patron, expressed disbelief at the reaction, remarking, “I was just a little startled, and kind of stunned. Wayne Gretzky being booed in a small, hockey-focused neighbourhood pub in Edmonton – it was like, how the mighty have fallen.”

The backlash stems not only from his recent public appearances with Trump but also from the president’s controversial remarks suggesting Canada could become a U.S. state. Grant Prete, a passionate fan from Edmonton, launched a petition to rename Wayne Gretzky Drive, citing his ties to Trump as a betrayal. “If you stay friends, or have close associations politically, with an enemy of the nation, then you become labelled as a traitor,” Prete stated, reflecting a sentiment echoed by many fans feeling disillusioned.

Janet Gretzky, Wayne’s wife, defended him on Instagram, stating it “has broken his heart” to read negative comments about him. She thanked fellow hockey legend Bobby Orr for supporting her husband, emphasizing, “I have never met anyone who is more proud to be a Canadian.” Orr, in a recent opinion piece for the Toronto Sun, called Gretzky one of “the greatest Canadians ever” and urged critics to respect his personal beliefs.

Though Gretzky has remained silent amid the uproar, his former peers have differing opinions regarding the backlash. Lyle Best, a former executive director of the Edmonton Oilers Alumni Association, believes the outrage is more about Trump’s presidency than Gretzky’s actions. “I think it’s people’s anger at Donald Trump and the way he’s treating the world,” Best noted, highlighting the complicated relationship between sports figures and politics.

The history of Gretzky’s relationship with the Edmonton community is substantial; he has been a symbol of pride for many Canadians since joining the Oilers at age 17. His trade to the Los Angeles Kings in 1988 was met with widespread mourning, with fans likening it to a family tragedy. Despite the longstanding admiration for his achievements on the ice, ongoing political controversies are testing the bounds of his legacy and support.

In recent weeks, the atmosphere surrounding Gretzky has changed dramatically, with social media filled with accusations of betrayal. Former fans have labeled him a sellout, further fuelling the fire of the ongoing petition to change the name of Wayne Gretzky Drive, which symbolizes his impact on the city. “We are all feeling this really keen sense of betrayal right now,” said Terry McConnell, a former journalist in Edmonton, reflecting the deep connection the city has to its once-beloved star.

The situation illustrates the growing intersection of sports and politics in the public eye, where athletes are often scrutinized for their personal beliefs and affiliations. As Gretzky navigates this turbulent landscape, he finds his legacy—and the adoration of fans—caught in the crossfire.