‘I never became an American citizen’: Wayne Gretzky addresses fierce backlash from Canadians over his Don

Wayne Gretzky sets the record straight after receiving anti-Canadian criticism over his relationship with Trump (Getty Images) Wayne Gretzky has finally spoken out after months of criticism over his friendship with U.S. President Donald Trump. During a recent episode of the “100% Hockey” podcast hosted by John Shannon and Daren Millard, the hockey legend reaffirmed his deep-rooted Canadian identity despite political controversies surrounding Trump’s comments about Canada. “People are going to say and believe what they want, right? The bottom line is, I know in my heart I’m Canadian, stayed Canadian and am a Canadian citizen for life, simple as that,” Gretzky said.The remarks came after Gretzky faced backlash earlier this year during the NHL 4 Nations Face-Off, where Canada and the U.S. battled in a politically charged final. Fans criticized Gretzky for not wearing a Team Canada jersey and for not speaking out against Trump’s statements suggesting that Canada should become America’s 51st state. While the incident surprised many, Gretzky remained composed, saying, “Oh sure, because Canadians are proud.”

Wayne Gretzky stays true to his Canadian roots amid political controversy

Despite living in the United States for decades, Gretzky reminded fans that his heart and citizenship remain firmly Canadian. “I don’t know how many (Canadians) move to the U.S., whether it’s business, entertainment, hockey … but I would tell you that over 90 per cent of them become American citizens. I never became an American citizen; I’m Canadian,” he said.The Hall of Famer added that his life across borders has limited his political participation. While he cannot vote in the U.S. because he is not a citizen, he also cannot vote in Canada since he no longer resides there. Still, as Elections Canada notes, “Canadian citizens who live abroad may apply to be on the International Register of Electors,” allowing them to vote by mail in federal elections.Gretzky made it clear that politics isn’t his arena. “I’m not into politics, so I can’t stop the prime minister from saying something and I can’t stop the president from saying something,” he said. “I’m just a hockey player, simple as that.”The legendary forward, who has long been seen as an emblem of Canadian pride, acknowledged the weight of public expectation but stood by his choice to remain apolitical. “As I said to the prime minister, he wouldn’t tell me how to play hockey, I’m not going to tell him what to do in politics,” he shared.Following the 4 Nations backlash, Gretzky said he received a supportive call from outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. “It was a wonderful phone call,” Gretzky said. “He reached out and he gave me a great line, he said, ‘I’m giving you a hug call,’ and I said, ‘OK, I needed it right now.’”Through the noise of politics and public opinion, Gretzky’s message is clear — fame, friendship, or controversy aside, “The Great One” remains proudly and forever Canadian.More NHL coverageMaple Leafs in crisis as Auston Matthews’ injury sparks fears of season collapse after brutal Bruins encounterWayne Gretzky delivers blunt verdict on Connor McDavid’s $25 million deal that could reshape the Oilers’ future