June 6, 2025 – Sports & Culture Desk

NHL icon Sidney Crosby is under intense scrutiny after he declined to participate in Pride Month acknowledgments on social media this week. The Pittsburgh Penguins captain, known for his typically low profile and professionalism, made headlines after a brief but telling statement to reporters: “I choose not to comment.”

The response was immediate.

Prominent voices within the LGBT+ community, including several LGBTQ+ athlete advocacy groups, reacted strongly to Crosby’s decision. A trending hashtag, “#SilenceIsStillAStatement,” began circulating online, and one message in particular gained traction: a five-word declaration shared across thousands of posts:

“We expected better from you.”

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The phrase, first tweeted by LGBTQ+ sports advocate group Pride in Play, encapsulated a broader feeling of disappointment shared by fans, fellow athletes, and allies. Many highlighted Crosby’s influence in the hockey world and the missed opportunity to stand in solidarity with a marginalized community during Pride Month.

“Sidney Crosby has long been a face of the NHL. Choosing silence—especially in a time when visibility matters—is itself a statement,” said Jason McGuire, spokesperson for Athletes for Equality. “It may not have been hateful, but it certainly wasn’t helpful.”

While Crosby has yet to issue a follow-up statement, the Penguins organization released a neutral comment affirming the team’s support for LGBTQ+ rights, though it made no mention of Crosby directly.

This incident comes amid growing pressure on major sports figures to use their platforms for social causes. Last year, several NHL teams faced similar controversy for choosing not to wear Pride jerseys during pre-game warmups.

Reactions across the sports world have been mixed. Some defend Crosby’s right to personal choice, while others argue that public figures—especially in leadership positions—have a responsibility to set a tone of inclusion.

As the story unfolds, all eyes will be on Crosby’s next move, and whether he chooses to clarify or stand firm in his silence.