The American team claimed the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Italy, overcoming the Canadian hockey team. In a heartfelt gesture, they honored the late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau as they celebrated their victory on the ice.
During the festivities marking their third hockey gold medal win, the team revealed a Team USA jersey with Gaudreau’s name prominently displayed. With fans cheering passionately in the stands, team captains Auston Matthews, Zach Werenski, and Matthew Tkachuk took a victory lap, proudly displaying Gaudreau jerseys.
Gaudreau, hailing from New Jersey and previously with the Calgary Flames in the NHL, tragically lost his life alongside his brother Matthew on August 29, 2024. They were struck by a drunk driver while cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.
“It means everything. We all know he should be here with us,” said Dylan Larkin, captain of the Detroit Red Wings and Team USA forward, in remarks to ESPN. “He should be with us. We love him and will keep thinking about him. It’s just how we feel.”
Additionally, Team USA displayed Johnny’s jersey in their lockers throughout the Olympic Games as a source of motivation for the athletes.
“It’s fantastic to have them here; it feels very special,” remarked U.S. Olympic hockey player Zach Werenski. “We’re thrilled to have made it to the gold medal game for them to witness and participate in. It’s our duty to make them proud.”
Werenski had also played with Gaudreau at the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The Gaudreau family was present at the tournament this year, cheering on Team USA.
Guy Gaudreau, Johnny’s father, expressed gratitude for the support. “He wanted to be on this team,” he shared during the third period of America’s semifinal win. “And I wish he was here.”
Team USA also recognized Johnny’s younger brother, Matthew, an aspiring hockey player in his own right.
“Our two daughters kept saying non-stop, ‘You have to go. The boys would want you to do this. It means so much to John,’” stated Johnny’s mother, Jane. “This is significant for our family. I’m eager to reflect on what our sons meant to hockey.”
