For decades, Wayne Gretzky was the undisputed, universal face of Canadian pride. But in recent years, “The Great One” has found himself skating on thin ice with his home country. The reason? A high-profile, enduring friendship with Donald Trump. As the political landscape shifted, so did the public’s perception of No. 99, turning a hockey legend into a polarizing figure in the Great White North.
The Early Years: Golf and High-Stakes Socializing
The roots of the relationship between Gretzky and Trump stretch back long before the days of "Make America Great Again." In the 1980s and 90s, the two moved in the same elite circles. Gretzky, then the king of the Edmonton Oilers, often spent time on Trump’s golf courses.
The connection was partially forged through Peter Pocklington, the former Oilers owner who was a mutual acquaintance. Even back then, Trump was a fan of Gretzky’s dominance, once reportedly telling him he should consider a run for office. This era was defined by mutual admiration between two men who had reached the absolute peak of their respective professions.
The Political Pivot: From Rinks to Rallies
While Gretzky largely kept his personal politics private during his playing days, his alignment with Trump became undeniable during the 2024 election cycle. The hockey icon was spotted at Trump’s election night victory party, famously wearing a MAGA hat that sent shockwaves through Canadian social media.
In January 2025, Gretzky and his wife, Janet, were high-profile guests at Trump’s second inauguration. For many Canadians, this wasn't just a friend supporting a friend; it was a political statement. The sight of Canada’s favorite son standing firmly in the Trump camp began to alienate a segment of his fan base that viewed Trump’s “America First” policies as a threat to Canadian interests.
The "51st State" Tension
The relationship faced its toughest test in mid-2025 when President Trump began his provocative rhetoric regarding Canada. Between tariff threats and "jokes" about Canada becoming the 51st American state, tensions between the two nations reached a fever pitch.
Gretzky’s relative silence during this period was seen by some as a betrayal. While former NHL stars like P.K. Subban and Bobby Orr came to his defense—arguing that a man’s friendships shouldn't be a litmus test for his patriotism—the backlash was fierce. Critics argued that you couldn't be "The Great Canadian" while staying silent on comments that challenged Canada's very sovereignty.
A Legacy Reaffirmed? The 2026 Stance
Facing mounting pressure, Gretzky finally addressed the controversy in late 2025 and early 2026. On the 100% Hockey podcast, he delivered a firm reminder to his critics: "I never became an American citizen. I'm Canadian." He explained that while he values his friendship with the President, he doesn't dictate Trump’s policies any more than he dictates the Prime Minister’s. To visually drive the point home, Gretzky appeared at the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw sporting a prominent Canadian flag pin, a subtle but clear signal that his heart remains north of the border.
As of early 2026, the debate continues. Is Wayne Gretzky a "free agent" of the world, or does his legacy belong exclusively to Canada? One thing is certain: his bond with Donald Trump has added a complex, unforeseen chapter to the story of the greatest hockey player to ever live.
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