Recall the moment when Ben Steiner reported on X, stating, “Wayne Gretzky just gave Team USA thumbs up. Don’t like that one bit.” So, what happened? The atmosphere buzzed with excitement at the TD Garden in Boston, where the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game unfolded between Team USA and Canada. Among numerous celebrities and prominent figures, the Great One was also in attendance.However, the gesture he displayed towards the American squad sparked significant reactions among Canadian fans. What’s the reason behind that? For those keeping up with the latest hockey matches, the ongoing controversy surrounding the two games is likely on your radar. And if you don’t allow me to refresh it! Upon their arrival at the Montreal Bell Centre, Team USA faced a chorus of boos, while Team Canada encountered a similar reception at TD Garden. What’s with the boos?The political tensions are escalating between the two nations following several remarks made by President Donald Trump in the past few weeks. Nonetheless, setting aside the political dimensions surrounding sports, Wayne Gretzky found himself amidst criticism for cheering on Canada’s arch-rival, particularly given the current controversy and his Canadian identity.Recently, following a brief period of quiet, Janet Gretzky, spouse of the iconic Wayne Gretzky, unveiled a letter penned by Canadian hockey legend Bobby Orr addressed to her husband. Her response? “Thank you Mr. Bobby Orr Your words mean the world to Wayne and his family, I have never met anyone who is more proud to be a Canadian, and it has broken his heart to read and see the mean comments. . He would do anything to make Canadians proud, with his love for hockey and his country. He has always said you are one of the greatest, if not the greatest. Thank you for your kind words.” In this moment, Bobby’s words resonated with Janet, as he stood unwaveringly in support of Wayne.What message did Bobby Orr’s statement convey? While he acknowledged the success of the 4 Nations Face-Off within the hockey community, he also highlighted the persistent wave of animosity directed at his fellow former Canadian hockey player, Wayne Gretzky. “Once the match was concluded, I heard and read an unbelievable amount of criticism leveled against someone that I consider to be one of the greatest Canadians ever, namely, Wayne Gretzky, For the life of me, I cannot understand why the ‘haters’ have decided to go after Wayne because he didn’t wear a Canadian jersey during his introduction at the final match,” stated Orr.The ex-hockey star offered a straightforward evaluation. He felt a sense of disappointment regarding the reaction of the Canadian fans towards Gretzky during the championship game. What were Bobby’s thoughts on Wayne’s outfit for that game? “I, for one, thought that he looked very dignified while representing Canada with class and professionalism,” remarked the legendary defenseman.In addition, Bobby wrapped up his statement with a straightforward remark, saying, “Please, let’s take a time out. Extend a little grace, and a little respect for a good man and a great Canadian. Wayne, thanks for all you do.” However, how did the community respond to the statements made by Bobby and Wayne’s wife, Janet?Still not happy with Wayne GretzkyIn the midst of the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game, Wayne Gretzky encountered remarks such as, “He’s not #Canadian anymore.” Once again, the story remains the same, with one individual labeling him, “F Wayne Gretzky…. Traitor.” In a comparable sentiment, this supporter expressed, “He is nothing but a traitor to Canada now.” Nonetheless, this individual held a firm perspective on Janet’s message, asserting, “Not sure there’s a more boomer response than having your wife post a photo of a physical letter you received to social media.”Is it true that some users are claiming Wayne Gretzky is not Canadian? A brief search online reveals that he is recognized as a Canadian-American hockey player. Is he a holder of dual citizenship? Indeed, he does! Born in Brantford, Ontario, to Walter and Phyllis Gretzky, he later married American actress Janet Jones (now Gretzky). His career led him to play for American teams such as the LA Kings, St. Louis Blues, and the NY Rangers, necessitating his acquisition of U.S. citizenship. However, his feelings about being traded from the Edmonton Oilers?“I’m disappointed in having to leave Edmonton. I promised Mess (Mark Messier) I wouldn’t do this … ” remarked Gretzky at the time of his trade to the LA Kings. He did have to deal with these accusations back then, and the story hasn’t altered all that much with the detractors. One more supporter remarked, “Sorry The Great Once, you made your bed. Now you have to lie in it.” In a similar vein, this fan expressed, “Mom used to always tell me, ‘You made your bed, now you sleep in it.’ The same applies here.”The game of hockey ignites a whirlwind of emotions, energizing both players and fans alike. While the frustration may be comprehensible, hatred is never warranted. Gretzky has consistently shown his commitment to his country, and while he supported the American team during the 4 Nations Face-Off, his loyalty remains unquestioned by those who recognize him as more than just a hockey icon.The post “Traitor”: Wayne Gretzky’s Wife’s Act Fuels Hockey Community to Continue Trolling appeared first on EssentiallySports.