The atmosphere is electric among the hockey fans during the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game between Team USA and Canada. The situation has escalated to the point where even iconic figures such as Wayne Gretzky have faced backlash from the community due to a particular gesture directed at the American team at TD Garden.
Reporter Ben Steiner on X stated this update, noting, “Wayne Gretzky just gave Team USA thumbs up. Don’t like that one bit.” Among the many notable personalities present at the TD Garden in Boston, the Great One was in attendance. Nonetheless, the approval of Team Canada’s direct competitors was not well-received by fans, particularly those hailing from Gretzky’s homeland.
A quick Google search of the Great One’s name reveals him identified as “Canadian American.” Is he not entirely Canadian? He was indeed born in Brantford, Ontario, to Walter Gretzky and Phyllis Gretzky. Later in his life, due to his hockey career, Gretzky obtained U.S. citizenship as he played for teams such as the Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, and the New York Rangers. Indeed, there have been numerous accusations of betrayal directed at the Great One for abandoning his nation since that time.
Wayne Gretzky just gave Team USA thumbs up.
Don’t like that one bit.
— Ben Steiner (@BenSteiner00) February 21, 2025
Did Gretzky ever consider leaving the Edmonton Oilers to join another NHL franchise during his hockey career? “‘I’m disappointed in having to leave Edmonton. I promised Mess (Mark Messier) I wouldn’t do this … ”” remarked the Great One at the time of his trade to the Kings.
What about the promise he mentioned? Messier and Gretzky transcended the role of mere teammates; they shared a profound friendship that extended beyond the rink. Parting ways with a team and the players he had formed close bonds with was undoubtedly a painful experience for the Great One.
This is a developing report…
The post Wayne Gretzky Gets in Trouble With Fans for Gesture Towards American Team During 4 Nations Finals: “Remove His Honorary Title” appeared first on EssentiallySports.