“The greatest criminal”: Dominik Hasek slams Donald Trump for using Hockey to whitewash serious global crimes by Russia

Former NHL goaltender Dominik Hasek has publicly condemned Donald Trump for his recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing the former U.S. president of using hockey to whitewash serious global crimes. Hasek, a vocal critic of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, expressed disbelief that Trump would intertwine the sport with geopolitics.

Dominik Hasek’s strong response to Trump-Putin call

Dominik Hasek took to social media to voice his outrage, stating, “I woke up today and it’s still hard for me to believe that the current American president wants to use such a beautiful sport as ice hockey to justify and legalize the worst crimes of the 21st century! Instead of doing everything together with the entire democratic world to ensure that the greatest criminal of our time, Putin, is tried for his terrible crimes. Unfortunately, this is the reality today.”


The former goaltender has been unwavering in his stance against Russia, previously urging Czech athletes to avoid playing in the country. He believes working in Russia directly supports the regime and its military actions.

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin discuss Hockey amid war talks

During their two-hour conversation, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin reportedly discussed Ukraine, global security, and U.S.-Russia relations. Trump proposed a 30-day ceasefire, with Putin agreeing to halt attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure—but with conditions that Kyiv ultimately rejected.

However, what sparked Hasek’s outrage was Trump bringing hockey into the conversation, a move Hasek sees as an attempt to normalize Putin’s actions through sports.

Dominik Hasek’s History of Criticism Toward Russia & the NHL

Dominik Hasek has consistently called for tougher action against Russia. In October 2022, he criticized the NHL for allowing Russian players to compete in Prague, arguing that the league was indirectly supporting the Russian government.

“We know that if we don’t stop the Russians in Ukraine, then we will be one of the next in line… Russia must be defeated and forced back into its territory. There is no other way to peace. Believe that.”

Hasek also criticized Alexander Ovechkin for refusing to condemn the war, calling him "chickens–t" for claiming sports and politics are separate.

Additionally, he has demanded the resignation of NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly, accusing them of disrespecting the Czech government’s firm stance against Russia.

Also Read: Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin discusses potential NHL-KHL Hockey matchup, NHL declines to comment

Dominik Hasek, who grew up under communist rule, fears that if Ukraine falls, his country could be next. His outspoken views continue to spark debate in both the sports and political worlds, proving that for him, hockey is more than just a game—it’s a platform for justice.

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