Gretzky's Ties to Trump Spark Canadian Loyalty Debate

Wayne Gretzky is facing backlash in Canada due to his ties with former President Donald Trump, which many Canadians perceive as a betrayal of his national loyalty. His silence on Trump's controversial comments regarding Canada, including suggestions of annexing it as a U.S. state, has further fueled public discontent. Local sentiments in Brantford, Ontario, where Gretzky grew up, reflect a growing unease, with residents expressing disappointment over his absence and perceived change since moving to the U.S. Photos of Gretzky celebrating Trump's election and attending his inauguration have intensified criticism, leading to vandalism of his statue in Edmonton. While some defend Gretzky's right to remain apolitical, others feel that his loyalty to Canada is in question. As his legacy becomes scrutinized, Gretzky's public image as a beloved sports icon is increasingly at odds with his political associations.