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USA's Brady Tkachuk Makes 'Weird' Admission About Canadian Fans at 4 Nations

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Feb 26, 2025 4:28 AM ET

Ottawa Senators forward and Team USA overnight sensation Brady Tkachuk admitted it was a strange experience playing for Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off.

That, however, doesn't have to do with being part of the team but rather with the tournament taking place in American and Canadian cities, with the latter hosting games at arenas packed full of Canadian fans rooting against him.

The Senators captain, who plays in Canada’s capital Ottawa during the NHL season, acknowledged the shift in crowd reception while representing his home country.

“I understand. No hard feelings, but glad to have them back on my side for the next 25-plus games,” Tkachuk said on Tuesday, per The Athletic's Julian McKenzie, ahead of his return to the Senators lineup on Wednesday.

All things considered, it's fair to say that the tournament featured a strong political backdrop.

Canadian fans booed the American national anthem days after U.S. President Donald Trump referred to Canada as the United States "51st state" and called Prime Minister Justin Trudeau a "governor" before the latter laughed last after Canada's win in the 4 Nations final.

“I think it’s just every country’s passion,” Tkachuk said. “Every country was rooting for their own, and all that stuff is just a part of it.

”And I think that’s what made this tournament special, is that everybody was all in on their respective countries.”

Tkachuk also pointed out that he and Team USA captain Auston Matthews (from the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs) were in unique situations, as both lead Canadian-based NHL teams but had to face their home crowds as opponents during international play.

Despite the loss to Canada in the final, Tkachuk called the tournament a memorable experience, especially since he got to play alongside his brother, Matthew.

The Senators captain returned to practice Tuesday but remains cautious about rushing back from the injury he sustained at the tournament. Tkachuk leads the Senators this season with 21 goals in 56 games and is third in points with 44.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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