Hockey legend defends Wayne Gretzky amid criticism at 4 Nations final over Trump ties

Alex Thomas talks about golfing with Will Smith, Wayne Gretzky, Joe Pesci, and recalls a story about Jack Nicholson casually spending $175K on the course. Presented by Oikos #OikosStrong

Hockey legend Bobby Orr came to the defense of Wayne Gretzky in an op-ed on Saturday as "The Great One" took flak for his appearance as Team Canada’s honorary captain for the 4 Nations final.

The majority of the criticism came over Gretzky’s apparent support of President Donald Trump. Gretzky was seen as a victory celebration in Florida when Trump won the 2024 presidential election and was at his inauguration in January. Trump has also teased Canada, calling Justin Trudeau the "governor" of the "51st state." Trump has even floated the idea of Gretzky becoming the next governor of Canada.

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New York Rangers' Wayne Gretzky celebrates scoring a goal against the Stars in Dallas, Nov. 7, 1997. (AP Photo/LM Otero, File)

Orr, a fellow Canadian, wrote in the Toronto Sun that he was filled with "disappointment" as he read the criticism against someone he considers one of the "greatest Canadians ever."

"How fickle can people be, when someone who has given so much time and effort to Canadian hockey is treated in such a way," Orr’s column read. "Listen, we all have our personal beliefs as they pertain to things such as religion and politics. Wayne respects your right to such beliefs – why can’t you respect his?"

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Canadian retired professional hockey player Wayne Gretzky arrives for the presidential inauguration in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 20, 2025. (Saul Loeb-Pool via