WASHINGTON – The U.S. Men’s national hockey team, fresh off a gold medal victory at the 2026 Winter Olympics, received a rare honor Tuesday night, being recognized by President Donald Trump during his State of the Union address. The team’s remarkable run to the championship, culminating in a 2-1 overtime win against Canada, has been met with national celebration, and the White House acknowledgement underscored their achievement.
Beyond the team’s collective recognition, goaltender Connor Hellebuyck will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. The announcement, made during the address, highlighted Hellebuyck’s pivotal performance in the gold medal game, particularly a stunning save that helped secure the victory. This recognition places Hellebuyck among a distinguished group of athletes, including Simone Biles, Joe DiMaggio, and Michael Jordan, who have received the prestigious award.
Gold Medal Game and White House Recognition
The U.S. Men’s hockey team’s gold medal win marked the first time the program had reached the top of the podium since the “Miracle on Ice” in 1980. The dramatic overtime victory over Canada was celebrated across the country, and the team’s subsequent invitation to the State of the Union address further amplified their success. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle stood and cheered, chanting “USA!” as the team entered the House chamber, wearing their blue “USA” sweaters and gold medals.
President Trump specifically praised Hellebuyck’s performance, recalling a conversation about a crucial save during the final game. “I asked him, the one shot, the one where you put your stick in the back and it hit the neck of your stick and bounced off, do you practice that?” Trump recounted, according to reports. “Or was that a little lucky?” Hellebuyck, known for his stoicism, reportedly shrugged in response, prompting further amusement from the President.
Hughes Brothers and Team Dynamics
Also in attendance were Jack Hughes, who scored the game-winning goal, and his brother Quinn Hughes. Jack Hughes notably displayed his chipped front teeth – an injury sustained during a high-sticking incident in the gold medal game – to the gallery, drawing cheers from the audience. The Hughes brothers, who honed their skills in Canton, Michigan, were at the forefront of the team’s entrance into the chamber.
The team’s celebration, although, wasn’t without some controversy. Following their win, a video surfaced of the team speaking with President Trump, during which he jokingly remarked, “We’re going to have to bring the women’s team, you do grasp that. I do believe I probably would be impeached.” This comment sparked debate online, with some interpreting it as a reluctant acknowledgment of the women’s team’s own gold medal win. Quinn Hughes addressed the situation on “Good Morning America,” emphasizing the men’s team’s support and admiration for their female counterparts. “We’re really happy for them,” Hughes said, adding that the teams had trained together extensively.
Hellebuyck to Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who have made “especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, or to world peace, cultural or other significant public endeavors.” With over 671 individuals having received the honor, Hellebuyck will be the first hockey player to be bestowed with the award. The 32-year-old netminder, who plays for the Winnipeg Jets, made 41 saves in the gold medal game and also recorded an assist on Hughes’s winning goal.
President Trump stated he had taken a vote among the team members before deciding to award Hellebuyck the Medal of Freedom, and received unanimous support. “I thought he deserved it,” Trump said. “I did seize a vote — every single one of them. I said, ‘I’m not giving it if anybody goes “no,”’ and every single one of them rapidly put up their hand.”
The recognition for the U.S. Men’s hockey team and Connor Hellebuyck marks a significant moment for the sport in the United States. As the team returns home, their accomplishments will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of hockey players and fans. The focus now shifts to the future of the program and building on this Olympic success.
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