Wayne Gretzky , known globally as "The Great One," is under fire from Canadian fans after voicing support for former U.S. President Donald Trump during a tense period of renewed U.S.-Canada trade friction. The hockey legend’s comments have ignited a political firestorm north of the border, with some Canadians calling him a " MAGA junkie " on social media.
Wayne Gretzky is being labeled a "MAGA junkie"
The controversy began when Wayne Gretzky appeared on an American conservative podcast earlier this week and expressed admiration for Trump’s leadership style and policies. Though he stopped short of endorsing Trump for the 2024 election, his praise came at a politically charged time. The U.S. has signaled potential tariff hikes on Canadian aluminum and lumber, reigniting trade tensions reminiscent of the 2018 disputes during Trump's presidency.
"President Trump always had strong views about putting his country first, and I respected that approach," Gretzky said during the interview. "He stood up for American businesses, and I think that's something leaders should do."
That sentiment didn’t sit well with many Canadians, particularly in a climate where economic uncertainty and strained cross-border relations are top of mind. The backlash was swift. Social media platforms were flooded with posts accusing Gretzky of turning his back on Canadian values, with hashtags like #GretzkyGoHome and #MAGAOnIce trending in some regions.
“Wayne Gretzky siding with Trump while Canada faces another trade war? That’s not ‘Great,’ that’s disgraceful,” one user wrote on X.
Others defended the hockey icon, pointing out that he has lived in the U.S. for years and is entitled to his political views.
Still, the incident has reopened an old debate about the expectations placed on public figures, especially those who have long been seen as national symbols. For many Canadians, Gretzky is more than just a hockey player — he's a cultural icon. But his perceived alignment with Trumpism has left fans questioning where his loyalties now lie.
Also Read: Fans call for Wayne Gretzky to take stand silence on Donald Trump controversy
As tensions escalate between the two countries, Gretzky’s comments are a reminder that even sports legends aren’t immune to political fallout.
Wayne Gretzky is being labeled a "MAGA junkie"
The controversy began when Wayne Gretzky appeared on an American conservative podcast earlier this week and expressed admiration for Trump’s leadership style and policies. Though he stopped short of endorsing Trump for the 2024 election, his praise came at a politically charged time. The U.S. has signaled potential tariff hikes on Canadian aluminum and lumber, reigniting trade tensions reminiscent of the 2018 disputes during Trump's presidency.
"President Trump always had strong views about putting his country first, and I respected that approach," Gretzky said during the interview. "He stood up for American businesses, and I think that's something leaders should do."
Wistikles | Wayne Gretzky’s ties to Donald Trump have ignited a loyalty debate in Canada, with many questioning his allegiance. The controversy is particularly strong in his hometown of Brantford, where residents feel betrayed by his silence on Trump’s remarks. #wistikles pic.twitter.com/6XyeRWrm0I
— Wistikles (@wistikles) April 1, 2025
That sentiment didn’t sit well with many Canadians, particularly in a climate where economic uncertainty and strained cross-border relations are top of mind. The backlash was swift. Social media platforms were flooded with posts accusing Gretzky of turning his back on Canadian values, with hashtags like #GretzkyGoHome and #MAGAOnIce trending in some regions.
“Wayne Gretzky siding with Trump while Canada faces another trade war? That’s not ‘Great,’ that’s disgraceful,” one user wrote on X.
Others defended the hockey icon, pointing out that he has lived in the U.S. for years and is entitled to his political views.
Still, the incident has reopened an old debate about the expectations placed on public figures, especially those who have long been seen as national symbols. For many Canadians, Gretzky is more than just a hockey player — he's a cultural icon. But his perceived alignment with Trumpism has left fans questioning where his loyalties now lie.
Also Read: Fans call for Wayne Gretzky to take stand silence on Donald Trump controversy
As tensions escalate between the two countries, Gretzky’s comments are a reminder that even sports legends aren’t immune to political fallout.
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