In Milan, the spotlight shone on the American women’s hockey team as they faced Czechia at Rho Arena on Thursday. The reception they received from the almost full crowd indicated that the initial concerns about a chilly welcome for U.S. athletes at the Olympics may not materialize.
Speculation had suggested a potentially hostile reaction towards American athletes at the opening ceremony on Friday due to trade disputes under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, territorial ambitions, and local discontent over the presence of ICE agents in Italy. However, the smooth American debut on Thursday seemed to alleviate those fears.
Although national anthems are not played before Olympic events, the U.S. women’s team received cheers from American spectators and silence from others as they took to the ice for warmups. Notably, Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were escorted to their reserved seats by Secret Service agents during the game, joining other distinguished guests like billionaire U.S. ambassador Tilman Fertitta and former Olympic hockey players advocating for women’s sports policies.
The crowd’s reaction to the VIP presence was subdued, with players like Kendall Coyne Schofield and coach John Wroblewski focusing on the game rather than the notable attendees. The atmosphere was further lightened by the playing of “YMCA” and “Free Bird,” with the crowd showing support for the American team.
Captain Hilary Knight expressed gratitude for the positive reception, emphasizing the team’s commitment to representing the country positively through their performance. Vance and Rubio witnessed the Americans scoring their opening goal, and the crowd, including the vice-president, showed their appreciation.
Looking ahead, Canada’s upcoming clash with their rivals is anticipated to be more intense, especially after Finland’s game was postponed due to a norovirus outbreak among players. The Canadians are now set to face Switzerland, while the Americans will continue their pursuit of success at the Olympics.
With multiple opening ceremonies scheduled across northern Italy, including in Milan, where Vance and Rubio are expected to support the U.S. women’s hockey team once more, global attention turns to the unfolding events at the Winter Olympics.